The legislation will amend the Hawaii Revised Statutes to include a new chapter specifically addressing large concentrated animal feeding operations. It includes provisions that will prohibit the establishment and expansion of these facilities, with a definitive timeline for phasing out existing operations by July 1, 2028. The bill aims to address not only the environmental consequences of CAFOs but also their disproportionate impact on indigenous populations and communities of color, underscoring the intersection of environmental health and social equity. By curbing the operations of CAFOs, the bill seeks to support small, independent farmers who practice environmentally sustainable agriculture, promoting healthier food systems in Hawaii.
Summary
SB1585 seeks to address the profound risks posed by concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) in Hawaii. The bill finds that these facilities, which house thousands of animals and generate vast amounts of waste, contribute to significant environmental degradation, public health risks, and social injustices. Emphasizing the historical pollution incidents caused by large CAFOs, particularly the Big Island Dairy, the bill lays out a framework for prohibiting new operations and phasing out existing ones to protect communities and the environment from further harm. This legislative measure aims to mitigate the adverse effects related to air and water quality, as well as threats to local wildlife and ecosystems.
Contention
The legislative discussions surrounding SB1585 highlight significant contention regarding the balance between local food production demands and environmental protection measures. Proponents argue that large CAFOs pose unacceptable risks to public health and local ecosystems, advocating for more sustainable agricultural practices. Conversely, opponents may express concerns about food security issues, arguing that limiting CAFOs could affect local agricultural outputs and prices. Moreover, the bill may face pushback from the agricultural industry, which may view such restrictions as overly burdensome and detrimental to business viability.