WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 884

Public Health, Department of; establish grant program for perinatal facilities to increase availability of obstetric care in low access maternity care areas and deserts

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Karen Bennett and 4 co-sponsors

Bill HB 884 restricts foreign ownership of agricultural lands to protect local farmers and ensure access to essential resources for residents and domestic entities.

House Second Readers
#health
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 884

Summary of Bill HB 884: Relating to Agricultural Lands

Overview

Bill HB 884 was introduced on January 21, 2025, and aims to address issues related to agricultural lands in the state. The bill is currently classified as a legislative bill and has passed its first reading. It has been referred to several committees for further consideration.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 884 is to establish regulations concerning the ownership and management of agricultural lands, particularly focusing on restrictions related to foreign ownership. The bill seeks to protect local agricultural interests and ensure that agricultural lands remain accessible to residents and domestic entities.

Key Provisions

While the full text of the bill is not provided, the following key provisions can be inferred based on the subject matter:

  • Restrictions on Foreign Ownership: The bill likely includes specific limitations on the ability of foreign entities or individuals to purchase or lease agricultural lands within the state. This is intended to safeguard local agricultural production and maintain control over essential food resources.

  • Appropriations: The bill may include provisions for funding or appropriations to support the Department of Agriculture (HDOA) in enforcing these restrictions and managing agricultural land resources effectively.

  • Regulatory Framework: HB 884 may establish a framework for monitoring and regulating agricultural land transactions, ensuring compliance with the new restrictions.

Affected Parties

The bill is expected to impact various stakeholders, including:

  • Local Farmers and Agricultural Producers: By restricting foreign ownership, local farmers may benefit from increased access to agricultural lands and reduced competition from foreign entities.

  • Foreign Investors: Individuals or companies looking to invest in agricultural lands may find their opportunities limited under this legislation.

  • State Department of Agriculture (HDOA): The HDOA will likely have an expanded role in overseeing agricultural land transactions and enforcing the new regulations.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:

    • January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and passed the first reading.
    • January 23, 2025: Referred to the following committees for further review: Agriculture (AGR), Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA), and Finance (FIN).

  • Next Steps: The bill will undergo discussions and potential amendments in the referred committees before it can advance to further readings and potential voting in the legislative assembly.

Conclusion

Bill HB 884 represents a significant legislative effort to regulate agricultural land ownership in the state, particularly concerning foreign investments. By establishing restrictions and a regulatory framework, the bill aims to protect local agricultural interests and ensure the sustainability of agricultural resources. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, further details and implications will become clearer.

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

Sign in to ask a question.