Hawaii House Bill HCR146

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Requesting The Establishment Of A Working Group To Discuss Agriculture-related Issues.

Impact

The resolution underscores the urgent need for legislative action to protect farmers and ranchers, recognizing that existing protections may be insufficient to deter agricultural crimes. It emphasizes the danger posed by illegal hunters who often trespass onto farms, carrying weapons and accompanied by dogs. The working group is tasked with finding a balance between protecting the rights of lawful hunters and preventing criminal activities on agricultural lands. This initiative aims to create a more secure agricultural environment while respecting cultural practices related to hunting.

Summary

HCR146 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii's Thirty-second Legislature that seeks to establish a working group focused on addressing agriculture-related issues. A primary concern highlighted in the resolution is the increase in agricultural crimes, specifically theft, vandalism, and trespassing, which pose significant threats to Hawaii's farmers and ranchers. In 2019, nearly 19,000 incidents were reported, leading to an estimated financial loss of approximately $14.4 million, constituting 10% of the state's net farm income for that year. The working group aims to address these critical concerns and propose legislative measures to enhance farm security.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding the establishment of this working group revolves around balancing law enforcement and cultural hunting practices in Hawaii. The resolution acknowledges that while illegal hunting is a persistent issue, it is vital to protect the rights and traditions of hunters within the community. As such, discussions within the working group will likely have to navigate these sensitive cultural dynamics while addressing the legislative measures necessary to protect farmland from criminal activities. The findings and recommendations from the working group are set to be reported to the Legislature before the convening of the Regular Session in 2025.