THE SENATE S.B. NO. 1259 THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025 STATE OF HAWAII A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to agricultural education. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
THE SENATE S.B. NO. 1259
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025
STATE OF HAWAII
THE SENATE
S.B. NO.
1259
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025
STATE OF HAWAII
A BILL FOR AN ACT
relating to agricultural education.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that agricultural education is essential for fostering an understanding of sustainable practices and food security among students in grades kindergarten through twelve. Hawaii's unique geographical location and cultural heritage make it imperative to promote agricultural education to ensure the sustainability of local food systems and the preservation of traditional farming practices. The legislature further finds that the State faces several challenges that underscore the need for dedicated agricultural education programs. As a remote island state, Hawaii imports approximately eighty-five to ninety per cent of food, making the State susceptible to supply chain disruptions. Further, the State's natural resources are finite, making natural resource management a significant priority for the future of the agricultural industry. While there is potential for agriculture to become a major industry for the State, creation of strong agricultural education programs are necessary to ensure longevity and continued growth. Investing in agricultural education can also lead to diverse economic opportunities, contributing to the State's economic growth and resilience. The legislature also finds that the health and well-being of Hawaii's people is of paramount importance. Presently, efforts to revitalize Native Hawaiian traditional and customary practices, including cultivation of taro and maintenance of fishponds (loko ia), have contributed to the preservation of these practices. Further, the growth of the agricultural industry through farming and cultivation of native plant species has the potential to create healthier lifestyles for Hawaii's people. The legislature recognizes that several states have introduced similar legislation and programs to support agricultural education and land dedication. California, Florida, Iowa, New York, and Texas have implemented programs to expand access to agricultural education programs among students, emphasizing the growing support for agriculture and sustainability. The State has the potential to become an innovator in agriculture and education based on geography, unique natural resources, and incorporation of Native Hawaiian history and traditional and customary practices. Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish the land dedication for agricultural education program to require real estate developers to dedicate a portion of land for agricultural education programs within the department of education. SECTION 2. Chapter 302A, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new subpart to part VI to be appropriately designated and to read as follows: "SUBPart . land dedication for agricultural education. §302A-A Definitions. As used in this part: "Agricultural education" means educational programs and activities that focus on the principles and practices of agriculture, including but not limited to crop cultivation, animal husbandry, and sustainable farming. "Dedicated land" means land set aside by real estate developers for the purpose of agricultural education. "Real estate developer" means any person or entity undertaking a development project that requires land dedication as a condition of approval. §302A-B Land dedication; requirements; uses. (a) Any real estate developer required to make a land dedication as a condition of a development project shall dedicate the land for the purpose of agricultural education for students in grades kindergarten through twelve, in addition to or in lieu of cemetery purposes, historic preservation, public recreation, and open spaces. (b) This part shall apply to all development projects that require land dedication as a condition of approval. Exemptions may be granted by the department in cases where land dedication for agricultural education is not feasible. §302A-C Curriculum; training opportunities. (a) The department shall develop and implement agricultural education programs, including school gardens, agricultural science laboratories, farm-to-school programs, educational workshops and field trips, and sustainable farming practices demonstrations. Provisions for student-led projects, internships, and leadership opportunities shall be included to foster engagement and ownership. Research and development in agricultural education shall be promoted to keep the curriculum updated with the latest advancements and best practices. (b) The department, in collaboration with the department of agriculture, shall oversee the implementation and maintenance of agricultural education programs on the dedicated land. The department shall develop guidelines and standards for the use of the dedicated land to ensure that it meets the educational needs of students in grades kindergarten through twelve and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The department shall provide ongoing support and resources to schools utilizing the dedicated land for agricultural education programs, including grants and subsidies. (c) The department shall: (1) Encourage collaboration with local farmers, agricultural organizations, and educational institutions; and (2) Promote active student involvement in the planning and implementation of agricultural education programs. §302A-D Sustainability curriculum; indigenous knowledge; disaster preparedness training. (a) The importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship shall be emphasized in the agricultural education programs. The department shall include the teaching of sustainable farming practices, conservation techniques, and the importance of biodiversity. The department shall emphasize the impacts of climate change on agriculture and the implementation of sustainable practices as a mitigation strategy. (b) The curriculum shall include indigenous agricultural knowledge and practices in relation to sustainable farming. The department shall provide opportunities for integrating modern technology into agricultural education, including but not limited to the use of drones for monitoring crops, hydroponics, and aquaponics systems, or virtual reality for farm simulations. (c) The department shall incorporate training on disaster preparedness and resilience, particularly in relation to agricultural practices and food security. The department shall also include training on the mental health challenges faced by individuals in the agricultural sector, including support services for students and educators involved in agricultural education. §302A-E Professional development; educators. The department shall provide opportunities for teachers and educators to receive professional development and training in agricultural education including but not limited to workshops, seminars, and certification programs. §302A-F Developer responsibilities. The dedicated land shall be of sufficient size and suitable location to support agricultural education programs. Real estate developers shall be responsible for the initial preparation and infrastructure development of the dedicated land, including but not limited to soil preparation, irrigation systems, and fencing. The land shall include necessary infrastructure and facilities, such as irrigation systems, greenhouses, and classrooms. §302A-G Partnerships; community involvement. (a) The department shall encourage partnerships with local farms, agricultural organizations, universities, research institutions, and food production companies to provide students with hands-on learning experiences and internships. The department shall include collaboration with community groups and nonprofits to support program implementation and sustainability. (b) The department shall encourage community involvement and input in the planning and implementation of agricultural education programs. Public meetings and feedback sessions shall be held to gather input from local stakeholders. The department shall promote community outreach and engagement to raise public awareness about the benefits of agricultural education. The department shall host community events, open houses, and volunteer opportunities to involve the broader community. §302A-H Land dedication special fund. (a) There is established within the state treasury a special fund to be known as the land dedication special fund into which shall be deposited: (1) Appropriations by the legislature to the special fund; (2) Gifts, donations, and grants from public agencies and private persons; and (3) Moneys derived from interest, dividends, or other income from other sources. (b) The special fund shall be used for innovative agricultural projects proposed by students and educators to encourage creative solutions to local agricultural challenges. §302A-I Reporting. (a) The department shall establish a system for regular monitoring, evaluation, and feedback from students, educators, and community members of the agricultural education programs to ensure compliance in accordance with this subpart. Periodic assessments and adjustments shall be made based on feedback and outcomes. The department shall require regular reporting on the status and outcomes of the agricultural education programs. Reports shall be made publicly available to ensure transparency and accountability. (b) The department shall submit a report of its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session." SECTION 3. The department of education shall consult with the department of taxation to determine tax incentives for real estate developers who dedicate land for the agricultural education program established pursuant to section 2 of this Act. The department of education shall include all proposed tax incentives in its reports pursuant to section 302A-I, Hawaii Revised Statutes. SECTION 4. The department of education shall consult with the department of the attorney general to determine penalties commensurate with violations of the land dedication requirements for the agricultural education program established pursuant to section 2 of this Act. The department of education shall include all proposed penalties in the reports required pursuant to section 302A-I, Hawaii Revised Statues. SECTION 5. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same sum or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 to be deposited into the land dedication special fund. SECTION 6. There is appropriated out of the land dedication special fund the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same sum or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment and operation of the land dedication for agricultural education program established pursuant to section 302A-H, Hawaii Revised Statutes. The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of education for the purposes of this Act. SECTION 7. In codifying the new sections added by section 2 of this Act, the revisor of statutes shall substitute appropriate section numbers for the letters used in designating the new sections in this Act. SECTION 8. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2025. INTRODUCED BY: _____________________________
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that agricultural education is essential for fostering an understanding of sustainable practices and food security among students in grades kindergarten through twelve. Hawaii's unique geographical location and cultural heritage make it imperative to promote agricultural education to ensure the sustainability of local food systems and the preservation of traditional farming practices.
The legislature further finds that the State faces several challenges that underscore the need for dedicated agricultural education programs. As a remote island state, Hawaii imports approximately eighty-five to ninety per cent of food, making the State susceptible to supply chain disruptions. Further, the State's natural resources are finite, making natural resource management a significant priority for the future of the agricultural industry. While there is potential for agriculture to become a major industry for the State, creation of strong agricultural education programs are necessary to ensure longevity and continued growth. Investing in agricultural education can also lead to diverse economic opportunities, contributing to the State's economic growth and resilience.
The legislature also finds that the health and well-being of Hawaii's people is of paramount importance. Presently, efforts to revitalize Native Hawaiian traditional and customary practices, including cultivation of taro and maintenance of fishponds (loko ia), have contributed to the preservation of these practices. Further, the growth of the agricultural industry through farming and cultivation of native plant species has the potential to create healthier lifestyles for Hawaii's people.
The legislature recognizes that several states have introduced similar legislation and programs to support agricultural education and land dedication. California, Florida, Iowa, New York, and Texas have implemented programs to expand access to agricultural education programs among students, emphasizing the growing support for agriculture and sustainability. The State has the potential to become an innovator in agriculture and education based on geography, unique natural resources, and incorporation of Native Hawaiian history and traditional and customary practices.
Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish the land dedication for agricultural education program to require real estate developers to dedicate a portion of land for agricultural education programs within the department of education.
SECTION 2. Chapter 302A, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new subpart to part VI to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"SUBPart . land dedication for agricultural education.
§302A-A Definitions. As used in this part:
"Agricultural education" means educational programs and activities that focus on the principles and practices of agriculture, including but not limited to crop cultivation, animal husbandry, and sustainable farming.
"Dedicated land" means land set aside by real estate developers for the purpose of agricultural education.
"Real estate developer" means any person or entity undertaking a development project that requires land dedication as a condition of approval.
§302A-B Land dedication; requirements; uses. (a) Any real estate developer required to make a land dedication as a condition of a development project shall dedicate the land for the purpose of agricultural education for students in grades kindergarten through twelve, in addition to or in lieu of cemetery purposes, historic preservation, public recreation, and open spaces.
(b) This part shall apply to all development projects that require land dedication as a condition of approval. Exemptions may be granted by the department in cases where land dedication for agricultural education is not feasible.
§302A-C Curriculum; training opportunities. (a) The department shall develop and implement agricultural education programs, including school gardens, agricultural science laboratories, farm-to-school programs, educational workshops and field trips, and sustainable farming practices demonstrations. Provisions for student-led projects, internships, and leadership opportunities shall be included to foster engagement and ownership. Research and development in agricultural education shall be promoted to keep the curriculum updated with the latest advancements and best practices.
(b) The department, in collaboration with the department of agriculture, shall oversee the implementation and maintenance of agricultural education programs on the dedicated land. The department shall develop guidelines and standards for the use of the dedicated land to ensure that it meets the educational needs of students in grades kindergarten through twelve and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The department shall provide ongoing support and resources to schools utilizing the dedicated land for agricultural education programs, including grants and subsidies.
(c) The department shall:
(1) Encourage collaboration with local farmers, agricultural organizations, and educational institutions; and
(2) Promote active student involvement in the planning and implementation of agricultural education programs.
§302A-D Sustainability curriculum; indigenous knowledge; disaster preparedness training. (a) The importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship shall be emphasized in the agricultural education programs. The department shall include the teaching of sustainable farming practices, conservation techniques, and the importance of biodiversity. The department shall emphasize the impacts of climate change on agriculture and the implementation of sustainable practices as a mitigation strategy.
(b) The curriculum shall include indigenous agricultural knowledge and practices in relation to sustainable farming. The department shall provide opportunities for integrating modern technology into agricultural education, including but not limited to the use of drones for monitoring crops, hydroponics, and aquaponics systems, or virtual reality for farm simulations.
(c) The department shall incorporate training on disaster preparedness and resilience, particularly in relation to agricultural practices and food security. The department shall also include training on the mental health challenges faced by individuals in the agricultural sector, including support services for students and educators involved in agricultural education.
§302A-E Professional development; educators. The department shall provide opportunities for teachers and educators to receive professional development and training in agricultural education including but not limited to workshops, seminars, and certification programs.
§302A-F Developer responsibilities. The dedicated land shall be of sufficient size and suitable location to support agricultural education programs. Real estate developers shall be responsible for the initial preparation and infrastructure development of the dedicated land, including but not limited to soil preparation, irrigation systems, and fencing. The land shall include necessary infrastructure and facilities, such as irrigation systems, greenhouses, and classrooms.
§302A-G Partnerships; community involvement. (a) The department shall encourage partnerships with local farms, agricultural organizations, universities, research institutions, and food production companies to provide students with hands-on learning experiences and internships. The department shall include collaboration with community groups and nonprofits to support program implementation and sustainability.
(b) The department shall encourage community involvement and input in the planning and implementation of agricultural education programs. Public meetings and feedback sessions shall be held to gather input from local stakeholders. The department shall promote community outreach and engagement to raise public awareness about the benefits of agricultural education. The department shall host community events, open houses, and volunteer opportunities to involve the broader community.
§302A-H Land dedication special fund. (a) There is established within the state treasury a special fund to be known as the land dedication special fund into which shall be deposited:
(1) Appropriations by the legislature to the special fund;
(2) Gifts, donations, and grants from public agencies and private persons; and
(3) Moneys derived from interest, dividends, or other income from other sources.
(b) The special fund shall be used for innovative agricultural projects proposed by students and educators to encourage creative solutions to local agricultural challenges.
§302A-I Reporting. (a) The department shall establish a system for regular monitoring, evaluation, and feedback from students, educators, and community members of the agricultural education programs to ensure compliance in accordance with this subpart. Periodic assessments and adjustments shall be made based on feedback and outcomes. The department shall require regular reporting on the status and outcomes of the agricultural education programs. Reports shall be made publicly available to ensure transparency and accountability.
(b) The department shall submit a report of its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session."
SECTION 3. The department of education shall consult with the department of taxation to determine tax incentives for real estate developers who dedicate land for the agricultural education program established pursuant to section 2 of this Act. The department of education shall include all proposed tax incentives in its reports pursuant to section 302A-I, Hawaii Revised Statutes.
SECTION 4. The department of education shall consult with the department of the attorney general to determine penalties commensurate with violations of the land dedication requirements for the agricultural education program established pursuant to section 2 of this Act. The department of education shall include all proposed penalties in the reports required pursuant to section 302A-I, Hawaii Revised Statues.
SECTION 5. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same sum or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 to be deposited into the land dedication special fund.
SECTION 6. There is appropriated out of the land dedication special fund the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same sum or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment and operation of the land dedication for agricultural education program established pursuant to section 302A-H, Hawaii Revised Statutes.
The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of education for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 7. In codifying the new sections added by section 2 of this Act, the revisor of statutes shall substitute appropriate section numbers for the letters used in designating the new sections in this Act.
SECTION 8. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2025.
INTRODUCED BY: _____________________________
INTRODUCED BY:
_____________________________
Report Title: DOE; DOTAX; AG; Land Dedication for Education; Land Dedication Special Fund; Agricultural Education; Developers; Tax Incentives; Penalties; Reports; Appropriations Description: Establishes the Land Dedication for Agricultural Education program within the Department of Education. Requires the Department of Education to consult with the Department of Taxation to establish tax incentives for land developers who dedicate land for educational purposes. Requires the Department of Education to consult with the Department of the Attorney General to establish penalties. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
Report Title:
DOE; DOTAX; AG; Land Dedication for Education; Land Dedication Special Fund; Agricultural Education; Developers; Tax Incentives; Penalties; Reports; Appropriations
Description:
Establishes the Land Dedication for Agricultural Education program within the Department of Education. Requires the Department of Education to consult with the Department of Taxation to establish tax incentives for land developers who dedicate land for educational purposes. Requires the Department of Education to consult with the Department of the Attorney General to establish penalties. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.