Hawaii House Bill HB976

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Relating To Hemp Special Fund.

Impact

The implications of HB976 are significant for state law as it expands the financial resources available to the Department of Agriculture for enforcing and overseeing hemp-related regulations. By permitting access to the industrial hemp special fund, the Department of Agriculture can efficiently carry out its enhanced responsibilities without needing to create a new fund. The appropriation of $50,000 is also intended to further bolster the department's capabilities for the fiscal year 2023-2024.

Summary

House Bill 976 aims to amend Section 141-14 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, specifically regarding the industrial hemp special fund. The primary objective of the bill is to allow the Department of Agriculture to utilize the existing industrial hemp special fund to support its regulatory responsibilities, which have expanded due to the previous Acts 14 and 137. These acts introduced a registry for hemp processors within the Department of Health and established specific regulatory duties concerning the monitoring of hemp transportation and growth restrictions.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB976 appears to be supportive among agricultural stakeholders and those involved in the hemp industry, as it streamlines funding for essential regulatory functions. Stakeholders recognize the need for effective management of hemp resources to facilitate growth and compliance with state regulations. However, concerns may arise from advocacy groups that monitor how these funds and regulatory powers are leveraged, particularly in relation to ensuring that agricultural practices remain environmentally and socially responsible.

Contention

While there seems to be a consensus on the necessity of the bill, notable points of contention could include the allocation of funds, as some legislators might worry about the responsible use of public funds for agricultural oversight. Additionally, discussions may arise over who gets to participate in the hemp processor registry and how fees are structured. The effective date of the amendments is set for June 30, 3000, which raises questions about the timeline for implementing these regulatory enhancements within the state's hemp industry.