STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2296

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: S.B. No. 2622

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2022

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Agriculture and Environment, to which was referred S.B. No. 2622 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO BIOFUELS,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to establish and provide funds for a two-year pilot project to grow biodiesel crops on the island of Molokai and require a report to the Legislature.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Agriculture, Hawai‘i Farm Bureau, one member of the Maui County Council, and six individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Hawaii State Energy Office and the Department of Budget and Finance.

Your Committee finds that this measure will support the growth of crops for biodiesel, which will provide jobs, diversify the State's economy, reduce food and fuel imports, and help the State reach its renewable energy goals.

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. 2622 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