STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2383

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: S.B. No. 2157

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirtieth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2020

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Agriculture and Environment, to which was referred S.B. No. 2157 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO AGRICULTURE,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to appropriate monies to the Agricultural Development Division and Plant Industry Division of the Department of Agriculture.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources; Department of Agriculture; Hawaii Cattlemen's Council, Inc.; Land Use Research Foundation of Hawaii; Maui Chamber of Commerce; Hawai‘i Farm Bureau; and two individuals.

Your Committee finds that increased funding is necessary to support agriculture in the State. This measure provides funding to increase biosecurity at airports and harbors; support small local farmers; and promote the safety of workers and the public in relation to agriculture, invasive species, and native ecosystems.

Your Committee requests that the Department of Agriculture suggest an appropriation amount that your Committee on Ways and Means may consider, should this measure move forward.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Agriculture and Environment that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 2157 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to your Committee on Ways and Means.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Agriculture and Environment,

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MIKE GABBARD, Chair