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GM 1337

Informing the Legislature that on June 27, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1249 SD1 HD2 CD1 (ACT 235).

2025 Regular Session

Act 235 enhances protection for Hawaii's agriculture by funding enforcement against agricultural crimes, supporting farmers, and boosting local economies.

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Bill Summary · GM 1337

Summary of Bill GM 1337: Informing the Legislature of Act 235

Overview

Bill GM 1337 serves as a proclamation to inform the Hawaii State Legislature that on June 27, 2025, Governor Josh Green signed into law Senate Bill 1249, which is now known as Act 235. This legislation addresses significant issues related to agricultural crimes in Hawaii.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Act 235, also referred to as "Duke's Law" in memory of Cranston "Duke" Pia, is to enhance the protection of Hawaii's agricultural industry from various crimes that threaten its sustainability and viability. The Act aims to:
- Strengthen legal frameworks concerning agricultural crimes.
- Establish clearer definitions and penalties for violations related to agriculture and agricultural lands.
- Create an agricultural enforcement pilot program to address these issues effectively.

Key Provisions

Act 235 includes several important provisions:

  1. Establishment of an Agricultural Enforcement Pilot Program:

    • This program will be implemented by the Department of Law Enforcement on the islands of Oahu and Hawaii.
    • It will focus on enforcing laws related to agricultural crimes, including theft of agricultural products and illegal hunting on private agricultural lands.

  2. Funding and Staffing:

    • The Act appropriates $949,856 for the fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the pilot program.
    • This funding will cover the establishment of various positions, including:
      • One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) assistant chief position.
      • Two full-time equivalent (2.0 FTE) state law enforcement investigator positions.
      • Six full-time equivalent (6.0 FTE) uniformed state law enforcement officer positions.

  3. Clarification of Penalties:

    • The Act differentiates between administrative and criminal penalties for agricultural crimes, ensuring that consequences are proportionate and effective.

  4. Collaboration with Other Agencies:

    • The Department of Law Enforcement will enter into memoranda of agreement with other enforcement authorities to enhance cooperation and resource sharing.

Impact

The implementation of Act 235 is expected to have a significant impact on:
- Farmers and Ranchers: By providing better protection against agricultural crimes, the Act aims to safeguard their livelihoods and enhance food security.
- Local Economies: Strengthening agricultural stability is crucial for the economic health of communities reliant on farming.
- Public Confidence: The Act seeks to restore public trust in the protection of agricultural resources and property rights.

Procedural Aspects

  • Date of Signing: June 27, 2025.
  • Status: The bill has been received by the legislature and is now officially enacted as Act 235.

In summary, GM 1337 serves as a formal notification of the enactment of Act 235, which aims to combat agricultural crimes in Hawaii through enhanced enforcement and clearer legal frameworks, ultimately supporting the state's agricultural industry and community resilience.

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

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