Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB2615

Introduced
1/21/22  
Refer
1/24/22  
Report Pass
2/18/22  
Refer
2/18/22  
Report Pass
3/4/22  
Engrossed
3/8/22  
Refer
3/10/22  
Report Pass
3/18/22  

Caption

Relating To The Board Of Agriculture.

Impact

If enacted, SB 2615 would officially increase the Board of Agriculture's membership from ten to twelve. By including representatives from Molokai and Lanai, the bill aims to enhance the representation of the diverse agricultural communities across the Hawaiian Islands. This change is intended to empower these islands' residents to have more input in the planning and regulation of agricultural practices, potentially leading to more tailored and effective agricultural policies that cater to the unique conditions and challenges faced by local farmers.

Summary

Senate Bill 2615 seeks to amend the composition of the Board of Agriculture in Hawaii by adding representatives from the islands of Molokai and Lanai. This legislative change is proposed in response to the diverse agricultural needs and water resource issues unique to each island within the state. The intent behind the bill is to ensure that agricultural policies are more reflective of local conditions and concerns, emphasizing the importance of local representation in decision-making processes that affect agriculture in Hawaii.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 2615 appears to be supportive, with acknowledgment of the importance of local representation. Stakeholders within the agricultural community likely see the addition of Molokai and Lanai representatives as a positive step towards addressing their specific agricultural issues. However, there could also be some contention regarding the logistics of implementing these changes and whether sufficient resources will be allocated to support a more diverse board effectively.

Contention

Some points of contention that may arise from the bill include concerns over the potential for increased bureaucracy and the effective management of additional board members. Critics might argue that adding members could complicate decision-making processes or dilute the existing representation from major agricultural areas. Furthermore, there may be discussions around how the board will ensure that all voices are heard equitably, particularly given the significant differences in agricultural practices and needs among the islands.

Companion Bills

HI HB1742

Same As Relating To The Board Of Agriculture.

Similar Bills

CA AB2106

Institutional purchasers: sale of California produce.

MS HB1055

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CA SB1308

Public educational institutions: purchase of nondomestic agricultural food products.

CA AB778

Institutional purchasers: purchase of California-grown agricultural food products.

CA AB1025

Institutional purchasers: purchase of domestic agricultural food products.

CA AB822

Institutional purchasers: sale of California produce.

HI HB1584

Relating To Agriculture.

HI SB2363

Relating To Agriculture.