AUTOMATED DECISION TOOLS

104th Regular Session Introduced by Graciela Guzmán

SB 2203 boosts agricultural tourism in Hawaii by streamlining land use processes, supporting local farmers, and enhancing the state's economy through tourism-related activities.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

Overview

Bill Number: SB 2203
Introduced: January 18, 2024
Status: Reported from WTL/EET with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to WAM.
Primary Sponsor: Senator Kouchi
Companion Bill: HB 1863

SB 2203 aims to amend existing regulations concerning land use in Hawaii, specifically focusing on agricultural districts and agricultural tourism. This bill is part of the Hawaiʻi Council of Mayors Package, which seeks to enhance local governance and land management.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 2203 is to:
- Facilitate Agricultural Tourism: The bill seeks to promote agricultural tourism within designated agricultural districts, thereby supporting local farmers and enhancing the state's economy.
- Streamline Land Use Processes: It aims to improve the efficiency of the Land Use Commission's processes, making it easier for agricultural tourism initiatives to be approved and implemented.

Key Provisions

Amendments to Land Use Regulations: The bill proposes changes to the existing land use regulations to better accommodate agricultural tourism activities.

Designation of Agricultural Districts: It outlines criteria for designating areas as agricultural districts, which may include considerations for tourism-related activities.

Support for Local Farmers: By promoting agricultural tourism, the bill intends to provide additional revenue streams for local farmers and enhance community engagement in agricultural practices.

Affected Parties

Local Farmers: The bill is expected to benefit local farmers by providing them with opportunities to diversify their income through tourism-related activities.

Tourism Industry: The agricultural tourism sector may see growth, contributing to the overall tourism economy in Hawaii.

Land Use Commission: The commission will have updated guidelines and processes to manage land use more effectively in relation to agricultural tourism.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

January 18, 2024: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.

January 31, 2024: Re-referred to WTL/EET, WAM.

February 9, 2024: Public hearing scheduled for February 14, 2024.

February 14, 2024: Committees on WTL and EET recommended the bill be passed with amendments; votes were predominantly in favor.

February 16, 2024: Report adopted; passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to WAM.

Conclusion

SB 2203 represents a significant step towards enhancing agricultural tourism in Hawaii while streamlining land use processes. By supporting local farmers and promoting tourism, the bill aims to foster economic growth and community involvement in agricultural practices. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final form and impact of the bill.

Bill