STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3225

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: H.B. No. 2548

H.D. 1

S.D. 1

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Agriculture and Environment, to which was referred H.B. No. 2548, H.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to:

(1) Establish the Climate-Resilient Food Systems Grant Program within the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity; and

(2) Appropriate funds.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity; Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau; Hawaii Cattlemen's Council, Inc.; Kauai Climate Action Coalition; 350Hawaii; Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action; Kanalani Ohana Farm; Hawaiʻi Climate Future Forum; and twenty-three individuals.

Your Committee finds that the agriculture industry in the State faces growing threats from climate-related factors, including extreme weather events, prolonged droughts, rising temperatures, and shifting pest and disease patterns. Many local farmers and ranchers are struggling to secure the financial support necessary to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, including special purpose equipment and technology. By addressing this financial barrier, this measure will further the State's goal of supporting agricultural producers and achieving food security and self-sufficiency.

Your Committee has amended this measure by inserting an effective date of July 1, 2050, to encourage further discussion.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Agriculture and Environment that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 2548, H.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 2548, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Ways and Means.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Agriculture and Environment,

________________________________

MIKE GABBARD, Chair