Hawaii Senate Bill SR157

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25
• Report Pass: 3/31/25
• Passed: 4/1/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Agriculture To Designate Kunia, Leilehua Plateau, And Poamoho As The Central Oahu Agricultural Corridor And To Establish A List Prioritizing Potential Agricultural Infrastructure Improvement Projects That Would Provide The Most Value To The State.

Impact

The bill aims to address Hawaii's heavy reliance on imported food, which could be jeopardized by natural disasters or global events. To counter this vulnerability, the state sets an ambitious goal of doubling local food production by 2030. This resolution emphasizes the necessity for improved infrastructure, such as roads and water systems, tailored to farmers' needs, which aligns with the larger goal of enhancing the state's food security. By doing so, it intends to provide both economic opportunities and sustainability in food production.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 157 requests the Department of Agriculture to designate specific regions within Oahu—Kunia, Leilehua Plateau, and Poamoho—as the Central Oahu Agricultural Corridor. This designation is intended to prioritize potential agricultural infrastructure projects that could significantly increase the state's agricultural production. Given the historical context of these lands, which were once significant for pineapple production, this resolution aims to adapt and modernize agricultural practices in Hawaii, focusing on sustainable local food production.

Contention

While the resolution represents a proactive approach toward agricultural reform, there may be concerns regarding the prioritization of projects and the potential impact on local land use and zoning. The resolution calls for a systematic evaluation of infrastructure improvement projects, which must consider county plans and regulations. This requirement could spark discussions about funding distribution and transparency in how projects are selected, raising questions about equity and effectiveness in meeting community needs.