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SB 2126

RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL GRANTS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lynn DeCoite and 2 co-sponsors

SB 2126 establishes agricultural grant programs in Hawaii to support farming operations, advancing food security and rural economic development through state-funded assistance.

Reported from AEN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2104) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
#farming #smallandmidsizedfarms #appropriation($) #dab #grants
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Bill Summary · SB 2126

Legislative bill overview

SB 2126 establishes or modifies agricultural grant programs in Hawaii, though the specific grant amounts, eligibility criteria, and program details are not provided in the available legislative summary. The bill has passed its initial committee stages with amendments and is currently moving toward the budget committee (WAM) for fiscal review.

Why is this important

Agricultural grants directly impact Hawaii's farming sector, food security, and rural economic development. Since Hawaii imports approximately 85% of its food, policies supporting local agriculture affect both farmer viability and the state's agricultural self-sufficiency goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding allocation: Without knowing the appropriated amounts, it's unclear whether grant levels adequately support agricultural operations or represent symbolic funding
  • Eligibility criteria: The amended version may have narrowed or broadened who qualifies for assistance, potentially affecting small farmers, specific commodities, or geographic regions differently
  • Budget committee scrutiny: The referral to WAM (Ways and Means) suggests fiscal concerns exist; the bill may face reduction or elimination of appropriations despite committee passage

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

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