Hawaii House Bill HR59

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/31/22
• Refer: 3/31/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Agriculture To Work With The Federal Government To Develop A Certification Process For Hunters To Become Certified Inspectors In Order To Inspect Their Own Game For Sale.

Impact

The bill requests the Department of Agriculture to collaborate with the federal government, specifically the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), to develop the certification framework. The current meat inspection process is cumbersome due to a lack of inspectors and has been problematic for hunters wishing to sell axis deer meat. This resolution seeks to streamline that process, enhancing the hunters' ability to engage in their culture while simultaneously addressing the ecological issues posed by the axis deer population.

Summary

House Resolution 59 (HR59) aims to address the overpopulation of axis deer in Hawaii by proposing a certification process that would enable hunters to become certified inspectors to inspect their own game for sale. This resolution highlights the historical context of the axis deer, which were introduced to Hawaii in the late 19th century and have since thrived in the absence of natural predators. The resolution points out the financial and ecological damages caused by these invasive species, including threats to native forests and agricultural damage, leading to significant economic losses each year.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR59 appears to be largely supportive among those concerned with wildlife management and agricultural efficiency. Proponents see the bill as a necessary step to empower local hunters, reduce bureaucratic delays in meat inspection, and tackle the challenges posed by invasive species. However, there may be concerns from regulatory bodies about ensuring food safety and maintaining standards during the certification of hunters as inspectors.

Contention

A notable point of contention might arise regarding the balance between wildlife management and food safety. While the resolution aims to alleviate the burden on federal inspectors, critics may question whether hunters, even when certified, possess the necessary expertise to ensure meat safety and quality. There could also be discussions about how such a process might affect the broader ecosystem if the hunting is not regulated properly. The resolution does not provide specific measures for enforcement or oversight of the certified inspectors' actions, which could lead to potential controversies in practice.