Hawaii House Bill HR70

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

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

Caption

Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct A Performance Audit Of The Ten Agricultural Parks Operated By The Agricultural Resource Management Division Of The Department Of Agriculture.

Impact

The resolution seeks to address significant challenges identified within the Agricultural Park Program, particularly the accessibility of land for small farmers. With the goal of doubling Hawaii's food production, the performance audit will evaluate whether the Department of Agriculture is effectively managing state-owned agricultural parks and whether the current policies are conducive to making agricultural land available to small farmers at reasonable costs.

Summary

House Resolution 70 aims to improve the management and operational effectiveness of the agricultural parks in Hawaii by requesting a performance audit from the Office of the Auditor. These agricultural parks are designed to foster agricultural activities and support small family farms by offering plots of land with access to irrigation and infrastructure. However, concerns have been raised about the program's effectiveness in meeting the needs of small farmers, particularly regarding the burdensome application process that can favor established farmers over new entrants.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR70 appears to be constructive, focusing on accountability and improved oversight of agricultural programs. Lawmakers from various backgrounds are supportive of ensuring that state resources fall in line with the needs of local farmers. The goal is not only to audit existing practices but also to gather insights for the potential reform of the Agricultural Park Program, which has seen mixed success in its current form.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HR70 have highlighted existing issues within the agricultural parks, including legal challenges against the Department of Agriculture regarding mismanagement. The resolution emphasizes the need for a thorough evaluation and potential improvements, raising questions about the effectiveness of previous agricultural policies and whether they have adequately supported new and diverse agricultural initiatives in Hawaii.