Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HCR92

Introduced
3/11/22  
Refer
3/14/22  
Report Pass
3/31/22  
Engrossed
3/31/22  
Refer
4/1/22  
Report Pass
5/3/22  

Caption

Urging The Department Of Agriculture To Assist Coffee Farmers In Purchasing Organic Fertilizer To Prevent Coffee Leaf Rust.

Impact

One of the resolution's pivotal points lies in its call for the Department of Agriculture to extend financial and logistical assistance to coffee farmers, particularly in purchasing organic fertilizers. Current programs, such as the pesticide subsidy established by prior legislative acts, do not adequately address the need for fertilizers, which are essential for coffee tree health. By advocating for this assistance, HCR92 highlights a gap in existing agricultural support and pushes for changes that could help bolster the resilience of the coffee industry against the impacts of diseases.

Summary

HCR92 is a House Concurrent Resolution that urges the Department of Agriculture to assist coffee farmers in purchasing organic fertilizer to combat coffee leaf rust. Coffee is a significant agricultural product in Hawaii, and its viability is threatened by this disease, which was first detected in the state in 2020. The resolution emphasizes the importance of organic fertilizers in maintaining the trees' health, which in turn reduces reliance on chemical pesticides. As the spread of coffee leaf rust can severely affect coffee yields, supporting farmers in maintaining healthy trees is deemed crucial for the industry.

Contention

While the resolution was passed unanimously by the Senate Agriculture and Environment committee, discussions around its implementation may highlight contention regarding the allocation of state agricultural resources. The reliance on organic methods, albeit beneficial for health and sustainability, might raise questions among stakeholders about the costs and availability of such fertilizers. Moreover, the resolution invites further scrutiny on the effectiveness of current pest management programs and the need for comprehensive strategies to support food security and agricultural sustainability in Hawaii.

Companion Bills

HI HR86

Same As Urging The Department Of Agriculture To Assist Coffee Farmers In Purchasing Organic Fertilizer To Prevent Coffee Leaf Rust.

Similar Bills

NJ S1576

Establishes farm pesticide collection and disposal program.

NJ A5357

Establishes farm pesticide, herbicide, and fertilizer collection and disposal program.

CA AB2491

School facilities: organic pesticides: pilot program.

HI SB12

Relating To Neonicotinoids.

CA AB2816

Pesticides: schoolsites: report.

HI SB351

Relating To Pesticides.

HI HB1284

Relating To Pesticides.

CA AB1042

Pesticide treated seed: labeling.