Hawaii House Bill HR14

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/24
• Refer: 3/8/24
• Report Pass: 3/25/24
• Report Pass: 4/4/24
• Refer: 3/25/24
• Passed: 4/4/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Agriculture To Create A Plan To Develop An Invasive Pests Placard Program And Assess The Resources Needed To Implement The Program.

Impact

If implemented, the plan will require nurseries, farms, and other agriculture-related businesses to display placards indicating whether their plants harbor invasive pests. This increased transparency is expected to reduce the likelihood of consumers inadvertently purchasing infested plants. The Department of Agriculture will need to outline the resources necessary for establishing this program and will also be responsible for clarifying the severity of any pest infestations.

Summary

H.R. No. 14, introduced in the Thirty-Second Legislature of Hawaii, is a resolution that requests the Department of Agriculture to develop a plan for an Invasive Species Placard Program. This initiative aims to inform the public about plants that contain invasive pests, which threaten agriculture, public health, and the environment. The resolution highlights the rapid spread of invasive pests across Oahu and aims to prevent further dissemination by making the pest status of plants transparent to consumers.

Contention

There may be differing opinions on the best approach to manage invasive pests. Some stakeholders might argue that the proposed placard system is crucial for protecting Hawaii’s unique ecosystems and agricultural health. Conversely, others could express concerns regarding the regulatory burden it may place on local businesses, arguing that it could lead to reduced plant sales or increased costs for compliance.

Implementation

The Department of Agriculture is tasked with submitting a comprehensive plan, resource assessment, and any proposed legislation to the legislature by twenty days prior to the opening of the next regular session in 2025. The success of this program will depend on collaboration with local farmers and nurseries to ensure that the information presented is accurate and helpful for consumers.