Farm-Friendly Bills in the 2026 Legislature

SB2922 / HB2404: General Cooperative Associations Act

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 3/2:

Latest Action: On February 24, 2026, the Senate Committee on Judiciary (JDC) scheduled a public decision-making hearing for March 3, 2026, at 10:15 AM (Conference Room 016 & Videoconference).

What this means: The bill has passed its initial committee (Commerce and Consumer Protection) and is now being reviewed by the Judiciary committee; this next meeting is where committee members will vote on whether to pass the bill (likely with amendments) to the full Senate for a final vote.

Previous Status (February 20, 2026): As of February 20, 2026, SB 2922 is successfully moving through the Senate. Following its public hearing on February 18, the Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN) recommended that the bill pass Second Reading with amendments (SD1). It has now been referred to the Committee on Judiciary (JDC) for further consideration.

Continued Info:

SB2922 and its companion HB2404 establish a new General Cooperative Associations Act in the Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes to modernize and unify Hawaiʻi’s fragmented cooperative laws. The Act creates a flexible legal framework allowing cooperatives to form for any lawful purpose while preserving core cooperative principles such as democratic member control, patronage-based distributions, and community benefit. Existing agricultural and consumer cooperative associations may elect to operate under this new framework, providing greater flexibility and clearer governance options than current sector-specific statutes.

Key Points

• Establishes a unified cooperative statute with consistent rules for formation, governance, member rights, fiduciary duties, distributions, and dissolution.

• Enables worker-owned, multi-stakeholder, service, and platform cooperatives to legally organize as cooperatives in Hawaiʻi.

• Preserves democratic governance through one-member, one-vote control.

• Allows multiple classes of members, including workers, producers, consumers, and community stakeholders.

• Supports patronage-based profit sharing and cooperative capital structures.

• Allows existing agricultural and consumer cooperatives to opt into the new framework.

Why This Matters

Hawaiʻi’s current cooperative laws are outdated and fragmented across narrow, sector-specific statutes that increase legal complexity and limit innovation. SB2922 and HB2404 modernize and simplify the legal foundation for cooperatives, making it easier and more affordable to form community-owned enterprises while supporting business succession, job quality, and local wealth building. The bill strengthens cooperative development across agriculture, worker ownership, housing, renewable energy, consumer retail, and other community-rooted sectors, helping keep wealth circulating within Hawaiʻi.

One Liner

SB2922 / HB2404 modernizes Hawaiʻi’s outdated cooperative laws by creating a unified, flexible legal framework that enables multi-stakeholder, worker-owned, and community-owned businesses to form across any industry with more innovative membership structures.

Sample Testimony

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is ____, and I am submitting testimony in strong support of SB2922 / HB2404, Relating to Cooperative Associations.

This legislation establishes a General Cooperative Associations Act to modernize Hawaiʻi’s outdated and fragmented cooperative laws and create a unified, flexible legal framework for cooperatives to form for any lawful purpose. This is a critical step in supporting locally owned businesses, community wealth building, and economic resilience across our state.

Currently, Hawaiʻi relies on multiple narrow, sector-specific cooperative statutes that increase legal complexity, raise startup costs, and limit innovation. Entrepreneurs and community members who wish to form worker-owned, multi-stakeholder, or community-based cooperatives often face unnecessary legal hurdles or are forced into corporate structures that do not reflect cooperative values or democratic governance.

By creating a single, modern cooperative statute, SB2922 / HB2404 will:

• Make it easier and more affordable to form cooperatives.

• Provide clear and consistent governance rules.

• Support locally owned businesses across agriculture, housing, energy, retail, technology, and other sectors.

• Allow existing agricultural and consumer cooperatives to opt into a more flexible framework if they choose.

Cooperatives are proven to create stable jobs, keep wealth circulating locally, and strengthen rural and community economies. Across the country, states with modern cooperative laws have seen growth in worker ownership, small business succession through cooperative conversions, and increased community investment.

This bill positions Hawaiʻi to join those states by providing the legal infrastructure needed for cooperative enterprises to thrive. At a time when many local businesses struggle with rising costs, workforce challenges, and ownership transitions, cooperatives offer a practical, locally rooted solution that benefits workers, consumers, and communities alike.

I respectfully urge the committee to pass SB2922 / HB2404 and help modernize Hawaiʻi’s cooperative laws to better support local ownership and economic opportunity.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

(your name).

SB2716: Cooperative Development Program

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: Status Update (February 19, 2026): Please be advised that SB 2716 was officially deferred by the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Technology (EDT) during its hearing on February 19, 2026.

What This Means: While the bill received strong testimony from the Hawaiʻi ʻUlu Producers Cooperative and other community stakeholders, the committee has chosen to postpone further action indefinitely. In the current legislative cycle, a deferral at this stage usually means the measure will not meet the necessary deadlines to move to the next committee (Ways and Means) or cross over to the House.

Next Steps for Advocates:

• Analyze the Concerns: We will be reviewing the committee’s discussion to understand the specific hurdles—whether budgetary or administrative—that led to the deferral.

• Refine the Proposal: This “pause” provides an opportunity to work closely with the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) and legislative leaders to refine the program structure for future introduction.

• Continued Support: Although SB 2716 is not moving forward this session, the momentum built for cooperative development remains strong. We thank everyone who submitted testimony and shared their stories.

Continued Info:

SB2716 establishes a Cooperative Development Program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to support the creation and expansion of cooperatives across Hawaiʻi. The program provides cost-share grants to help cover administrative startup and conversion costs, as well as grants to nonprofit cooperative development partners that deliver technical assistance, training, and outreach. The bill prioritizes projects that increase worker and community ownership, retain or create quality jobs, strengthen rural and agricultural economies, and support underserved communities, including Native Hawaiian communities.

Key Points

• Creates a statewide Cooperative Development Program housed at DBEDT
• Provides cost-share grants of $10,000 to $50,000 to help cooperatives cover startup and conversion costs such as legal services, feasibility studies, business planning, and governance development
• Requires a 25% match, which may include cash, other grants, or in-kind contributions like volunteer labor or donated professional services
• Funds nonprofit cooperative development partners to provide technical assistance, education, training, and outreach
• Prioritizes worker ownership, job creation and retention, rural and agricultural communities, Native Hawaiian, and underserved populations
• Includes reporting, evaluation, and program oversight to track outcomes and effectiveness
• Appropriates $750,000 for program implementation for FY 2026–2027, with a sunset date of June 30, 2031

Why This Matters

Starting or converting a business to cooperative ownership often requires significant upfront costs that are out of reach for workers, farmers, and community members, even when cooperative ownership would preserve jobs and strengthen local economies. SB2716 removes this barrier by investing directly in cooperative formation and development.

By pairing financial support with technical assistance, the bill helps grow worker-owned and community-owned businesses, supports business succession, improves job quality, strengthens rural and agricultural economies, and keeps wealth circulating locally. Together with SB2922’s modern legal framework, SB2716 provides the practical resources needed to build a thriving cooperative ecosystem in Hawaiʻi.

One Liner

SB2716 creates a Cooperative Development Program at DBEDT to provide grants and technical assistance that help start and convert cooperatives, prioritize worker ownership, quality jobs, and community economic resilience.

Sample Testimony 

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is _____, and I am submitting testimony in strong support of SB2716, which establishes a Cooperative Development Program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism.

SB2716 addresses one of the biggest barriers to cooperative formation and conversion in Hawaiʻi: the high upfront administrative costs required to organize a cooperative or transition an existing business to worker or community ownership. Feasibility studies, legal services, business planning, and governance development often cost tens of thousands of dollars, placing cooperative ownership out of reach for many workers, farmers, and community members.

This bill creates a practical solution by providing cost-share grants and funding nonprofit cooperative development partners to deliver technical assistance, education, and outreach. It prioritizes worker ownership, job retention and creation, rural and agricultural communities, and underserved populations, including Native Hawaiian communities.

Furthermore, I respectfully request that the bill be amended to explicitly include funding and technical assistance for the development of established cooperatives. While startup support is vital, providing resources for existing cooperatives to scale their operations, modernize governance, and reinvest in their communities ensures long-term economic resilience.

Across the country, similar programs have successfully supported cooperative enterprises that create quality jobs, strengthen local economies, and keep businesses rooted in their communities. SB2716 brings this proven approach to Hawaiʻi.

Together with SB2922’s modern cooperative legal framework, SB2716 builds the financial and institutional infrastructure needed for cooperatives to thrive.

I respectfully urge the committee to pass SB2716 and invest in locally owned businesses that strengthen Hawaiʻi’s economy and communities.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

(your name).

SB2718 SD1: Food Hub Pilot Program

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 3/2: 

Latest Action: On February 20, 2026, the bill passed its Second Reading and was referred to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM).

What this means: The bill has successfully moved past the joint policy committees (Agriculture & Environment and Government Operations) and is now in the “money committee.” Because the bill involves funding for the Food Hub Pilot Program, the Ways and Means committee must now review and approve the financial costs before it can move to a final vote in the Senate.

What This Bill Does (Updated Version SD1)

The amended version of the bill (SD1) strengthens the push for Hawaiʻi’s food self-sufficiency by focusing on both infrastructure and institutional procurement:

• Infrastructure Grants: Appropriates $5 million for the continued implementation of the Food Hub Pilot Program, providing “bricks and mortar” funding for cold storage, trucks, and processing equipment.

• 30% Local Food Mandate: By January 1, 2028, it requires state departments (including Education, Health, Corrections, Defense, and the University of Hawaiʻi) to ensure that at least 30% of their produce purchases are fresh local agricultural products or local value-added items.

• Educational Integration: Tasks the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB) with developing a land-based (“āina-based”) nutrition program for public schools.

• Support for Native Hawaiian Crops: Requires partnerships with regional aggregators to specifically support the processing and distribution of traditional staple crops like ʻulu and kalo.

Why This Matters Now

With the inclusion of the 30% local food mandate, SB 2718 is no longer just about building food hubs—it is about guaranteeing a market for them. This creates a stable demand cycle of:

1. Supply: Farmers grow more crops knowing a food hub can process them.

2. Infrastructure: SB 2718 grants help hubs buy the equipment to handle that supply.

3. Demand: State institutions are mandated to buy that processed food for schools and hospitals.

Next Steps for Advocates

The referral to Ways and Means (WAM) is the “make or break” moment for this bill, as the committee will decide if the $5 million appropriation fits within the state’s budget.

• Prepare Testimony for WAM: Focus on the Return on Investment (ROI). Highlight how every dollar spent on food hub infrastructure translates into local jobs and reduced dependency on expensive imports.

• Reference the Success of the Pilot: Mention the Department of Agriculture’s 2025 report which showed that previous food hub grants successfully helped hubs like Adaptations, Inc. reach over $2.5 million in annual sales while supporting hundreds of small farms.

Continued Info:

SB2718 establishes a five-year Food Hub Pilot Program within the Department of Agriculture to provide grant funding to Hawaii-based food hubs. The program is designed to support the scaling of food hub operations, including the purchase of equipment, facility improvements, and technical assistance. By providing consistent funding, the bill aims to increase the capacity of food hubs to aggregate, process, and distribute locally grown food to institutional markets, such as schools and hospitals, thereby strengthening Hawaii’s food security and supporting local farmers.

Key Points

• Establishes a 5-Year Pilot: Creates a formal Food Hub Pilot Program under the Department of Agriculture (DOA).

• Grant Funding: Provides financial assistance for “bricks and mortar” needs, including equipment purchases (cold storage, trucks) and facility upgrades.

• Technical Assistance: Includes funding for business development, food safety certification (GAP/FSMA), and operational training.

• Focus on Scaling: Specifically targets the expansion of existing food hubs to help them meet the high volume demands of state institutions.

• Reporting & Data: Requires the DOA to submit an annual report to the Legislature to track the program’s impact on local food production and distribution.

• Appropriation: Appropriates a yet-to-be-determined amount for FY 2026–2027 to jumpstart the program.

Why This Matters

Food hubs are the “missing middle” of Hawaii’s agricultural infrastructure. While individual small farms often struggle to reach large markets, food hubs provide the necessary aggregation and professional processing to move local food into the mainstream. However, the high cost of industrial equipment and food safety compliance often prevents these hubs from scaling. SB2718 removes these financial bottlenecks, allowing food hubs to become the backbone of a resilient, self-sufficient local food system.

One Liner

SB2718 establishes a five-year pilot program to provide grants and technical assistance to Hawaii food hubs, enabling them to scale operations and increase the distribution of locally grown food across the islands.

Sample Testimony

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is [Your Name], and I am submitting testimony in strong support of SB2718, which establishes a five-year Food Hub Pilot Program and grant funding within the Department of Agriculture.

As a [farmer/consumer/food hub member], I have seen firsthand that the greatest challenge to Hawaii’s food self-sufficiency isn’t just growing the food—it’s the infrastructure required to move that food from the field to the table. Food hubs serve as the essential link, providing small and mid-sized farmers with the aggregation, cold storage, and distribution networks they need to reach institutional buyers like the Department of Education.

SB2718 addresses the primary barrier to food hub success: the high capital cost of scaling. By providing grants for equipment, facility improvements, and technical assistance, this bill allows our local food hubs to professionalize and expand. This investment ensures that our farmers have a reliable marketplace and that our communities have consistent access to fresh, locally grown produce.

Furthermore, I believe that supporting food hubs is one of the most efficient uses of state agricultural funding. A single grant to a food hub supports dozens, if not hundreds, of individual family farms simultaneously. This “multiplier effect” strengthens our rural economies and keeps food dollars circulating within our islands.

Across the country, states that invest in food hub infrastructure see a direct increase in agricultural productivity and food security. SB2718 is a critical step toward making Hawaii’s food system more resilient and less dependent on overseas imports.

I respectfully urge the committee to pass SB2718 and invest in the vital infrastructure that will feed Hawaii’s future.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

(your name).

SB3063 – Relating To Department Of Education Procurement

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 3/2:

Latest Action: On February 25, 2026, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) held a public decision-making hearing and recommended that the bill be passed as amended (SD 2).

What this means: The bill has cleared its final Senate committee and is moving toward a full Senate vote; because this was a “Decision-Making” session, they were not taking new testimony at that time.

Previous Status (February 24, 2026): As of February 18, 2026, SB 3063 has cleared a major hurdle. It passed its Second Reading with amendments (SD1) and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM).

Next Steps for Advocates

The bill is now in the Ways and Means (WAM) committee. Since this bill involves “price preferences” (which technically cost the state slightly more in the short term), the focus of testimony must be on the long-term savings.

Key points for WAM Testimony:

• Economic Leakage: Remind the committee that 90% of our food dollars currently leave the state. A 5% “premium” on local food is actually a 95% “discount” on economic leakage.

• Health Outcomes: Fresh local produce reduces the long-term health costs associated with highly processed school meals.

• Support for Local Business: This is a direct reinvestment in Hawaiʻi’s small business economy.

Continued Info:

Relating to Department of Education Procurement SB3063 authorizes the Department of Education to expend up to five per cent more for the procurement of local edible produce and local packaged food products than the cost of non-local alternatives. The Act provides a critical exemption for these specific local food purchases from the State’s restrictive electronic procurement system requirements, instead establishing a streamlined “small purchase” process for acquisitions under $250,000. By modernizing school food purchasing rules, the bill aims to reduce administrative barriers that currently prevent local farmers and food producers from supplying Hawaiʻi’s public schools.

Key Points

• Authorizes a 5% price preference for the procurement of local edible produce and packaged food products by the DOE
• Exempts local food purchases under $250,000 from mandatory use of the state electronic procurement system
• Streamlines the bidding process by requiring a minimum of only three quotes for local food contracts, rather than complex formal solicitations
• Reduces administrative “red tape” for small-scale local farmers and vendors seeking to sell to the Department of Education
• Aligns DOE procurement practices with state goals to increase local food production and institutional purchasing
• Requires the department to maintain records of these small purchases to ensure transparency and accountability

Why This Matters

 Hawaiʻi’s public schools are among the state’s largest food consumers, yet rigid procurement laws often force the Department of Education to choose the cheapest imported goods over fresh, local alternatives. SB3063 removes the technical hurdles that make it difficult for local producers to navigate the state’s digital bidding systems. By allowing a price preference and simplifying the quote process, the bill makes it economically viable and administratively possible for schools to source food from Hawaiʻi’s own farms. This keeps taxpayer dollars circulating in the local economy, supports food security, and provides students with fresher, more nutritious meals.

One Liner

 SB3063 supports Hawaiʻi’s local farmers and improves school meals by allowing the Department of Education to pay a small premium for local food and exempting those purchases from complex electronic bidding requirements to simplify the procurement process.

Sample Testimony

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is ____, and I am submitting testimony in strong support of SB3063, Relating to the Department of Education Procurement.

SB3063 authorizes a critical 5% price preference for the procurement of local edible produce and packaged food products by the Department of Education (DOE) and simplifies the bidding process for these purchases. This is a vital step toward achieving Hawaiʻi’s food self-sufficiency goals and supporting our local agricultural economy.

Currently, Hawaiʻi’s rigid procurement laws and complex electronic bidding systems create significant barriers for local farmers and small-scale food producers. These administrative hurdles often make it nearly impossible for local vendors to compete with large, mainland distributors, forcing our schools to rely on imported goods even when fresh, local options are available nearby.

By modernizing these procurement rules, SB3063 will:

• Empower Local Farmers: Allow the DOE to prioritize local produce by providing a modest price preference that accounts for the true value of Hawaiʻi-grown food.
• Reduce Red Tape: Exempt local food purchases under $250,000 from the cumbersome state electronic procurement system, which is often a barrier for small family farms.
• Streamline Operations: Create a simplified “small purchase” process requiring only three quotes, making it faster and easier for schools to source fresh ingredients.
• Improve Student Nutrition: Increase the volume of fresh, locally harvested fruits and vegetables served in public school cafeterias.

Investing in local school food procurement is an investment in Hawaiʻi’s future. Every dollar spent on local food stays in our islands, supporting farmers, creating rural jobs, and strengthening our state’s food security. Furthermore, providing our students with fresh, local food fosters healthy eating habits and connects them to the land that sustains us.

SB3063 provides the necessary “small purchase” flexibility to ensure that our public institutions can effectively partner with our local agricultural community.

I respectfully urge the committee to pass SB3063 and help remove the administrative barriers that keep local food off our students’ plates.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

(your name).

HB2208: Relating to Food Security (Farm to Families)

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 3/2: 

Latest Action: On February 26, 2026, the House Committee on Finance (FIN) held a public hearing on the bill.

What this means: The bill (HB 2208, HD 1) has moved into its final committee in the House. Because this committee controls the state’s budget, they are reviewing the funding required to establish the “Hawaii Farm to Families Program.” If this committee votes to pass the bill, it will head to the full House for a final vote before crossing over to the Senate.

Previous Status (February 24, 2026): As of February 20, 2026, HB 2208 is progressing steadily through the House. After receiving a unanimous “pass” recommendation from the Committee on Agriculture & Food Systems (AGR), the bill has been referred to the House Committee on Finance (FIN).

Next Steps for Advocates

The bill’s next stop is the Finance (FIN) Committee. This is the final and most important hurdle in the House before the bill can “crossover” to the Senate.

Key Points for Finance Testimony:

• Efficiency: Highlight that food banks already have the infrastructure (trucks and warehouses) to distribute this food; they just need the funding to buy it from local farmers instead of mainland vendors.

• Health Savings: Mention that providing fresh produce to children reduces long-term healthcare costs associated with malnutrition and chronic disease.

• Economic Resilience: Emphasize that this is an investment in Hawaiʻi’s agricultural workforce and land-use goals.

Continued Info:

HB2208 establishes the Hawaiʻi Farm to Families Program within the Department of Human Services to provide consistent access to fresh, locally grown food for food-insecure households. The program facilitates a partnership between the State, local food banks, and Hawaiʻi’s agricultural producers to distribute nutritious, culturally relevant produce to communities in need. By appropriating funds specifically for the purchase of local crops, the bill aims to alleviate hunger while simultaneously strengthening the state’s agricultural economy and reducing dependence on imported food.

Key Points

• Establishes the Hawaiʻi Farm to Families Program under the Department of Human Services.

• Appropriates funds to support food banks in purchasing fresh produce directly from local farmers and food hubs.

• Targets high rates of hunger, addressing the fact that 1 in 3 Hawaiʻi households—and 34% of local children—currently face food insecurity.

• Prioritizes culturally relevant crops such as ʻulu, kalo, sweet potato, and local greens to ensure nutritious and familiar options for families.

• Strengthens the local food supply chain by creating a reliable, consistent market for small-scale and diversified local farms.

• Requires annual reports to the Legislature in 2027 and 2028 to track the program’s impact, spending, and effectiveness.

Why This Matters

With food insecurity rates reaching levels seen during the height of the pandemic, Hawaiʻi’s emergency food systems require stable, long-term support rather than temporary fixes. HB2208 creates a sustainable “win-win” model: it ensures that vulnerable families have access to high-quality, nutritious food while providing local farmers with a fair and consistent market. By investing in this connection, the State keeps wealth circulating within the local economy—turning every dollar spent on food into a broader investment in Hawaiʻi’s agricultural resilience and community health.

One Liner

HB2208 establishes and funds the Hawaiʻi Farm to Families Program to combat food insecurity by connecting local farmers with food banks to provide fresh, culturally relevant produce to families in need.

Sample Testimony

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is ____, and I am submitting testimony in strong support of HB2208, Relating to Food Security.

HB2208 establishes the Hawaiʻi Farm to Families Program to address the staggering reality that 1 in 3 households in our state, including 34% of our children, struggle with food insecurity. This bill is a critical step toward ensuring that no one in our ʻohana goes hungry while simultaneously investing in the local farmers who feed us.

Our community food systems have seen firsthand the power of farm-to-family partnerships. These programs allow local producers to expand their volumes while directly benefiting small-scale family farmers. HB2208 scales this proven model to reach families across the state through our established food bank networks.

By passing HB2208, the State will:

• Provide critical access to fresh, healthy, and culturally relevant foods for those in need.

• Support local farmers by providing a steady and fair market for their produce.

• Strengthen Hawaiʻi’s food supply chain and reduce our dependence on imported goods.

We know that when we connect local farms to community food systems, the benefits are felt by both our economy and our keiki. This bill provides the necessary resources to make a resilient and food-secure Hawaiʻi a reality.

I respectfully urge the committee to pass HB2208 to support our local families and our agricultural community.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

(your name)

HB2139: Relating to Invasive Species (Queensland Longhorn Beetle Study)

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 3/2: 

Latest Action (no change): On February 19, 2026, the House Committee on Higher Education & Technology (HED) adopted a committee report and referred the bill to the House Committee on Finance (FIN).

What this means: The bill (HB 2139, HD 1) has successfully passed through two policy committees (Agriculture & Food Systems and Higher Education). It is now in its final House committee, where the Finance members must determine if the state can afford the $138,443 appropriation to fund the University of Hawaii’s study on controlling the Queensland Longhorn Beetle.

Previous Status (February 24, 2026): As of February 19, 2026, HB 2139 has successfully passed through its initial committee hurdles. After a unanimous vote in the Committee on Higher Education & Technology (HED), the bill was referred to the House Committee on Finance (FIN).

This bill is a critical defense for Hawaii’s diversified agriculture and native forests, specifically targeting a pest that has been devastating crops on Hawaiʻi Island.

Next Steps for Advocates

The bill is now with the Finance (FIN) Committee. As this is an appropriation bill, its survival depends on the committee’s willingness to fund the $138,443 request.

Key Points for Finance Testimony:

• Cost of Inaction: The cost of this study is a fraction of the millions in potential crop losses and forest restoration costs if the beetle spreads statewide.

• Scientific Necessity: There is currently no known “silver bullet” for this beetle; specialized research is the only way to protect our agricultural economy.

• Support for Traditional Staples: Emphasize the beetle’s impact on culturally significant crops like ʻulu and kukui to highlight the bill’s importance beyond just commercial farming.

Continued Info:

HB2139 appropriates funds to the University of Hawaiʻi to conduct a critical study on effective treatment and mitigation methods for the Queensland Longhorn Beetle (Acalolepta aesthetica). First detected in Hawaiʻi in 2009, this invasive wood-boring beetle has rapidly expanded its host range to include over 20 species, including culturally and economically vital crops like ʻulu (breadfruit), cacao, citrus, and kukui. The bill aims to identify scientific solutions to prevent the statewide spread of this pest, which threatens to devastate local agriculture and native forests if left unchecked.

Key Points

• Funding for Science: Appropriates $138,443 to the University of Hawaiʻi for fiscal year 2026-2027 to study treatment methods.

• Protects Food Security: Targets a pest known to kill ʻulu (breadfruit) trees, a cornerstone of Hawaiʻi’s traditional food system and modern food security goals.

• Agricultural Defense: Supports industries such as cacao, avocado, and citrus, which are currently at risk of significant crop loss due to beetle infestations.

• Prevents Statewide Spread: Seeks to contain the beetle to East Hawaiʻi (where it is currently established) before it migrates to other islands or deeper into native forests.

• Addresses Cultural Heritage: Protects the kukui tree and other native species that are integral to Hawaiian culture and ecosystem health.

• Urgent Intervention: Recognizes that the larvae bore deep into tree trunks, making traditional surface-level pesticides ineffective and necessitating more advanced research.

Why This Matters

The Queensland Longhorn Beetle is an “invisible” killer; by the time an exit hole is visible, the tree is often already dying. For farmers, particularly those growing long-term starch crops like ʻulu, a beetle infestation can mean the loss of years of investment and a primary food source. By funding research now, the State is taking a proactive stance to protect our local economy and biodiversity. Without a proven treatment plan, we risk the permanent loss of native species and a severe setback to Hawaiʻi’s goal of doubling local food production.

One Liner

HB2139 funds essential research by the University of Hawaiʻi to develop treatment methods for the invasive Queensland Longhorn Beetle to protect Hawaiʻi’s agriculture and native forests.

Sample Testimony

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is [Insert Your Name], and I am submitting testimony in strong support of HB2139, Relating to Invasive Species.

HB2139 is a vital measure that provides the resources necessary to combat the Queensland Longhorn Beetle (QLB), an invasive pest currently threatening Hawaiʻi’s agricultural and cultural landscape. This bill originated from a proposal shared with Representative Greggor Ilagan by a research group at UH Hilo (including Becky Ostertag and Emma Steirhoff). This team has worked closely with partners, including those at the USDA, to identify and implement biological controls to stop this pest.

The researchers have been successfully rearing entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) to treat infestations, such as those at the Keaukaha Military Reserve. They are now conducting outreach events to train farmers and community members on these applications. According to the research team and collaborators at USDA, this bill is essential to move from small-scale trials to a statewide response.

By passing HB2139, the State will fund a technician and intern to:

• Scale Up Treatments: Increase the rearing and distribution of beneficial nematodes to the community.

• Optimize Methods: Investigate ways to simplify nematode treatments so they are easier for farmers to use.

• Monitor Infestations: Scout for and treat new possible sites of infestation to prevent inter-island spread.

• Scientific Life Cycle Study: Research the QLB life cycle to identify the most effective windows for intervention.

As we work toward a more food-secure Hawaiʻi, we cannot afford to lose our productive trees—such as ʻulu, cacao, and citrus—to a pest that kills from the inside out. This bill provides the missing link needed to give our farmers and land managers the science-based tools they need to protect their livelihoods.

We must act now to contain this threat before it causes irreversible damage to our native forests and agricultural economy. I respectfully urge the committee to pass HB2139.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

[Insert Your Name]

SB2885: Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Management

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 3/2:  

Latest Action: On February 26, 2026, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) and Senate Committee on Judiciary (JDC) scheduled a joint decision-making meeting for March 4, 2026, at 10:10 AM in Conference Room 211 and via videoconference.

What this means: This is a major hurdle for the bill (Relating to Biosecurity). Since it has already passed the Agriculture and Environment committee, it is now being reviewed by the two most powerful committees in the Senate—Judiciary (for legal language) and Ways and Means (for the budget). The committees will vote on Wednesday to decide if the bill should move to the full Senate for a final vote.

Previous Status (February 24, 2026): As of February 20, 2026, SB 2885 is moving forward with significant support. The bill passed its Second Reading with amendments (SD1) and has been officially referred to the Senate Committees on Judiciary (JDC) and Ways and Means (WAM).

Next Steps for Advocates

The referral to the JDC/WAM joint committee is a high-stakes step. JDC will look at the legalities of the mandates and penalties, while WAM will determine if the state can afford the enforcement costs.

Key Points for JDC/WAM Testimony:

• Economic Defense: Frame the cost of this program against the potential loss of the $100M+ palm and nursery industry, not to mention the cost of removing thousands of dead trees from public and private lands.

• Urgency: Emphasize that once the CRB is established, eradication is nearly impossible. This bill focuses on the only viable strategy: containment.

• Commercial Compliance: Mention that a unified state standard for treating green waste provides clarity for businesses that are currently struggling with a patchwork of informal recommendations.

Continued Info:

SB2885 establishes mandatory handling, storage, and treatment standards for mulch and green waste to combat the spread of the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros). While adult beetles are known for damaging palm trees, the vast majority of their life cycle occurs hidden within mulch and compost piles. This bill creates enforceable, science-based regulations for both commercial and residential properties to ensure that breeding sites are managed through heat treatments or mechanical processing, preventing the beetle from reaching adulthood and spreading to new islands.

Key Points

• Mandatory Handling Standards: Establishes strict rules for the storage and movement of “host material” (mulch, green waste, and palm debris) starting January 1, 2027.

• Interrupts the Life Cycle: Requires piles to be turned and aerated every 60 days or subjected to verified heat treatments (minimum 131°F) to kill larvae before they emerge as adults.

• Residential Limits: Restricts residential mulch or compost piles to one cubic yard unless moved to an approved commercial processor or county facility.

• Economic Protection: Seeks to prevent projected economic losses of $500 million to $1 billion over the next decade by controlling the primary driver of population growth.

• Enforcement and Fines: Authorizes the Department of Agriculture to issue warnings and civil fines ($500 per violation) to ensure compliance, with funds reinvested into CRB management and community grants.

• Prevents Inter-Island Spread: Closes existing “patchwork” regulatory gaps that currently allow untreated material to move between infested and non-infested zones.

Why This Matters

The Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle is a direct threat to Hawaiʻi’s coastal resilience, tourism, and cultural heritage. Without a statewide standard for green waste management, untreated mulch piles act as “beetle factories,” fueling an infestation that kills iconic palms and vital agricultural crops. SB2885 shifts the strategy from reactive tree care to proactive breeding-site management. By standardizing how we handle green waste, we protect our environment and economy from a pest that could otherwise cause irreparable damage to the Hawaiian landscape.

One Liner

SB2885 establishes mandatory, enforceable standards for mulch and green waste handling to stop the spread of the invasive Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle at its primary breeding source.

Sample Testimony

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is [your name], and I am submitting testimony in strong support of SB2885, Relating to Biosecurity.

The Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) is no longer a distant threat; it is a clear and present danger to our island’s ecosystem and economy. While much of the public focus is on the damage seen in our palm trees, the real battle is fought in the mulch and green waste piles where 90% of the beetle’s life cycle occurs. SB2885 provides the essential regulatory framework we have been missing to address these breeding sites directly.

Current efforts to contain CRB are hampered by a lack of consistent standards. Untreated mulch piles on both commercial and residential lands serve as nurseries for the next generation of beetles. By mandating science-based “kill treatments” and regular pile maintenance, this bill provides a realistic path to reducing the CRB population and protecting islands that are not yet infested.

By passing SB2885, the State will:

• Target the Source: Focus management efforts on the green waste piles that drive CRB population growth.

• Protect Local Economy: Mitigate the risk of hundreds of millions of dollars in damage to our agriculture and tourism sectors.

• Establish Clear Standards: Provide residents and businesses with clear, enforceable guidelines for biosecurity that keep our community safe.

We must act decisively to standardize our biosecurity protocols before the cost of inaction becomes a permanent burden on Hawaiʻi’s taxpayers and natural resources. I respectfully urge the committee to pass SB2885.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

[your name]

SB2110: Hawaiʻi Climate Change Mitigation and Adaption Commission

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 3/2: 

Latest Action: On February 25, 2026, the bill (SB 2110, SD 1) Passed First Reading in the Hawaii State House of Representatives.

What this means: The bill has successfully “crossed over” from the Senate to the House. It is currently at the very beginning of the House process and is awaiting referral to specific House committees for further review and debate.

Previous Status (February 24, 2026): As of February 18, 2026, SB 2110 is progressing through the Senate. Following a joint hearing by the Committees on Agriculture and Environment (AEN) and Health and Human Services (HHS), the bill was passed with amendments (SD1) and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM).

What This Bill Does (Updated Version SD1)

SB 2110 is designed to bridge the gap between small-scale farming and commercial food processing by making food safety training and certification more accessible.

• Food Safety Certification Program: Establishes a formal program within the Department of Agriculture (DOA) to assist farmers and food processors in obtaining Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) certifications.

• Cost-Share Assistance: Provides financial assistance to help small and medium-sized farms cover the high costs of food safety audits and the infrastructure upgrades required to meet federal standards.

• Technical Assistance: Funds positions for food safety specialists who can provide hands-on training, helping farmers navigate the complex federal paperwork that often acts as a barrier to entering commercial markets.

• Support for Value-Added Production: Specifically targets “post-harvest” handling and minimal processing, which are essential for getting local food into schools and grocery stores.

Next Steps for Advocates

The bill is now headed to the Ways and Means (WAM) committee. Since this bill involves direct financial assistance and new state positions, the committee will be looking closely at the budget impact.

Key Points for WAM Testimony:

• Economic Growth: Frame food safety certification as a “market opener.” Every certified farm is a farm that can now sell to state institutions, keeping more money in Hawaiʻi.

• Preventative Health: Investing in food safety at the farm level is far cheaper than dealing with the economic and health consequences of foodborne illness outbreaks.

• Leveraging Federal Dollars: Point out that state-level food safety programs often help Hawaiʻi farmers qualify for additional federal USDA grants that would otherwise be out of reach.

Continued Info:

SB2110 establishes the Conservation Agriculture and Soil Health Incentive Program within the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission. The program is designed to provide financial incentives and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers who implement conservation practices that improve soil health, increase carbon sequestration, and enhance the overall resilience of Hawaii’s agricultural lands. By promoting practices such as cover cropping, no-till farming, and compost application, the bill aims to restore land productivity while mitigating the impacts of climate change on the local food system.

Key Points

• Establishes a Soil Health Incentive Program to provide direct support for conservation-minded agricultural practices.

• Places the program under the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission to align agricultural health with state climate goals.

• Appropriates funds to offer financial incentives that offset the initial costs of transitioning to soil-healthy farming methods.

• Requires the commission to provide an annual report to the Legislature to ensure transparency and measure the program’s ecological impact.

• Focuses on long-term land productivity, recognizing that healthy soil is the foundation of food security and water retention.

• Provides technical assistance to help small-scale producers navigate the transition to regenerative agricultural systems.

Why This Matters

Healthy soil is a powerful tool for climate resilience, yet many local farmers lack the capital to transition to high-impact conservation practices. SB2110 changes this by viewing farmers not just as food producers, but as stewards of the environment. By investing in soil health, the state can improve the land’s ability to hold water during droughts and absorb it during heavy rains, directly protecting our aquifers and reducing runoff. This bill ensures that Hawaii’s agricultural industry can adapt to a changing climate while remaining economically viable for the next generation of growers.

One Liner

SB2110 establishes a Conservation Agriculture and Soil Health Incentive Program to provide farmers with the financial and technical support needed to build climate-resilient, productive landscapes.

Sample Testimony

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is [your name], and I am submitting testimony in strong support of SB2110, Relating to Agriculture.

SB2110 is a forward-thinking measure that recognizes the vital link between the health of our soil and the security of our food system. By establishing the Conservation Agriculture and Soil Health Incentive Program, this bill provides a necessary bridge for Hawaii’s farmers and ranchers to adopt practices that protect our environment while boosting crop yields. We know that healthy soil leads to more resilient farms, but the transition to these practices often comes with high upfront costs that our local producers cannot shoulder alone.

Our islands are on the front lines of climate change, facing increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. This program empowers our agricultural community to be part of the solution by sequestering carbon and improving the water-holding capacity of our lands. When we invest in our soil, we are investing in the long-term fertility of our islands and the health of our community.

By passing SB2110, the State will:

• Provide immediate financial incentives for farmers to implement regenerative and conservation-based practices.

• Integrate agricultural health into our broader state climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.

• Ensure that Hawaii’s lands remain productive and resilient for future generations of food producers.

I respectfully urge the committee to pass SB2110 to support our farmers in their efforts to build a healthier, more sustainable, and climate-ready Hawaii.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

[your name]

SB3162: Strategic Food Reserves 

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 3/2:

Latest Action (no change): On February 20, 2026, the bill (SB 3162, SD 1) passed its Second Reading and was referred to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM).

What this means: The bill, which establishes the Hawaii Strategic Food Reserves Program, has successfully passed the Agriculture and Environment committee. It is now being reviewed by the “money committee” (Ways and Means) to evaluate the funding and fiscal impact of setting up food reserves and grants before it can move to a final vote in the Senate.

Previous Status (February 7, 2026): Please be advised that SB3162 passed its second reading as amended (SD1) and was officially referred to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) on February 20, 2026.

The bill is moving forward with positive momentum. Having cleared the Agriculture and Environment (AEN) committee with a unanimous “pass” recommendation, it is now being reviewed for its budgetary implications. This is a critical stage where the funding for the food reserves and local agricultural grants will be determined.

Next Steps for Advocates

• Monitor WAM Scheduling: We are waiting for the Ways and Means Committee to schedule a hearing. Once scheduled, a high volume of testimony will be needed to ensure the appropriation is protected.

• Spread the Word: Educate your networks on how this bill bridges the gap between emergency preparedness and supporting local farmers.

• Stay Ready: We will send out an alert as soon as the hearing date is set so we can flood the committee with support for Hawaiʻi’s food security.

Continued Info:

SB3162 establishes the Hawaii Strategic Food Reserves Program within the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB). The program’s goal is to decrease Hawaiʻi’s heavy reliance on imported food by creating and maintaining physical food reserves on each island. It also creates the Agricultural Market Development Grant Program to fund the infrastructure and equipment local farmers need to scale up production to meet these reserve requirements.

Key Points

• Island-Specific Reserves: Mandates the creation of food storage sites on every island to ensure resilience during supply chain disruptions or natural disasters.

• Local Purchasing Requirements: Requires that a percentage of the food in these reserves be sourced from local producers, starting in 2026 and increasing over time.

• Advisory Committee: Establishes a Strategic Food Reserves Advisory Committee to oversee nutritional standards, storage procedures, and emergency deployment plans.

• Market Development Grants: Provides funding for local farmers and cooperatives to help them produce “priority crops” for the reserves.

• Phased Implementation: Sets a clear timeline for the state to reach target reserve capacities by 2031.

Why This Matters

Hawaiʻi currently imports roughly 80–90% of its food, leaving the islands incredibly vulnerable to shipping delays or global crises. SB3162 flips the script by using the state’s purchasing power to guarantee a market for local farmers while simultaneously building a safety net for every resident. This bill doesn’t just store food; it invests in the local agricultural infrastructure needed to make Hawaiʻi truly self-sufficient.

One Liner

SB3162 establishes a statewide Strategic Food Reserve Program and grant system to increase food security, support local farmers, and ensure every island has an emergency food supply.

Sample Testimony

Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Committee,

My name is [Your Name], and I am submitting testimony in strong support of SB3162, relating to Strategic Food Reserves.

As a resident of Hawaiʻi, I am deeply concerned about our extreme vulnerability to food supply chain disruptions. SB3162 provides a proactive and visionary solution by establishing island-based food reserves and, more importantly, ensuring that those reserves are stocked with locally grown produce.

I specifically support the Agricultural Market Development Grant Program included in this bill. For too long, our local farmers have lacked the infrastructure and consistent market demand needed to scale up. By linking the state’s emergency preparedness needs with local agricultural production, this bill creates a win-win for our economy and our safety.

I respectfully urge the committee to pass SB3162 and provide the necessary funding to make food security a reality for Hawaiʻi.

Mahalo for the opportunity to testify,

[your name].