Hawaii Senate Bill SB2430

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/24
• Refer: 1/22/24

Caption

Relating To Agriculture.

Impact

If enacted, SB2430 will require the Board of Agriculture to compile a detailed report concerning the suitability and usage of state agricultural lands for farming. This report must include the percentage of land that meets farming criteria and insights related to lease transfers between lessees. Such a measure is anticipated to provide clearer data on whether the current agricultural leasing system is maximizing benefits to the state and whether state resources are being appropriately utilized for agricultural development.

Summary

Senate Bill 2430 aims to address the use of state agricultural lands in Hawaii, focusing on the necessity to evaluate how these lands are being used and the implications of providing subsidized leases. The bill highlights concerns regarding lessees who use agricultural leases primarily for residential purposes or non-agricultural businesses, as well as the proportion of these leases that go unused. By emphasizing the importance of agricultural land for economic and food production goals, the bill seeks to ensure these resources are utilized efficiently to benefit both farmers and the state.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB2430 may arise regarding the balance between state control and individual rights, particularly regarding lease transfers in high-demand areas. The bill's focus on evaluating leases could expose tensions over how agricultural resources are allocated and the perceived fairness in the leasing framework, especially concerning potential windfall profits that individual lessees might receive from transferring their leases. Critics may argue that imposing stringent evaluations could complicate farmers' access to needed lands, thus impacting their operational viability.