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SR 77

Great Dane; congratulate

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tonya Anderson and 16 co-sponsors

SR 77 urges Hawaii's agriculture departments to form a task force to tackle axis deer overpopulation, protecting Maui's agriculture and ecosystems from damage.

Senate Read and Adopted
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Bill Summary · SR 77

Summary of SR 77: Urging Action on Axis Deer Overpopulation

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SR 77
Title: Urging the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Department of Agriculture of the County of Maui to Take Further Meaningful Action to Address the Axis Deer Overpopulation
Status: Report and Resolution Adopted, as amended (SD 1)
Introduced: March 07, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Subject: Axis Deer Overpopulation, Department of Agriculture, Joint Task Force, Maui County, report

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SR 77 is to address the growing issue of axis deer overpopulation in Maui County. The resolution urges both the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and the County of Maui's Department of Agriculture to take significant and effective measures to manage and mitigate the impacts of this overpopulation. The resolution highlights the ecological and agricultural challenges posed by the unchecked growth of the axis deer population.

Key Provisions

  • Action Urged: The resolution calls for the establishment of a joint task force involving the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and the Maui County Department of Agriculture to develop a comprehensive strategy for managing the axis deer population.
  • Reporting Requirements: The task force is expected to provide regular updates and reports on their findings and recommendations to the relevant legislative bodies.
  • Focus Areas: The resolution emphasizes the need for research into sustainable management practices that could include population control measures, habitat management, and community education.

Affected Parties

  • Agricultural Sector: Farmers and agricultural producers in Maui County may experience relief from the negative impacts of axis deer, which can damage crops and disrupt local ecosystems.
  • Wildlife Management Authorities: The resolution directly involves state and county agricultural departments, which will need to allocate resources and expertise to address the issue.
  • Local Communities: Residents of Maui County may benefit from improved agricultural productivity and a healthier ecosystem as a result of effective deer management.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 07, 2025: SR 77 was introduced.
  • March 11, 2025: The measure was referred to the Agriculture and Environment (AEN) committee.
  • March 14, 2025: A public hearing was held.
  • March 17, 2025: The AEN committee recommended the measure be passed with amendments.
  • April 02, 2025: The resolution was reported with recommendations for adoption.
  • April 03, 2025: The report and resolution were adopted as amended (SD 1).

Related Legislation

  • HR 192 and SCR 94 are companion measures that may address similar issues regarding wildlife management and agricultural impacts.

Conclusion

SR 77 represents a proactive approach to managing the axis deer overpopulation in Maui County, aiming to protect local agriculture and ecosystems through collaborative efforts between state and county departments. The resolution's adoption signals a commitment to addressing this pressing environmental issue effectively.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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