WeVote

Bill

Bill

SB 2318

RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 6 co-sponsors

Hawaii bill establishes agricultural statistics collection and reporting requirements to improve state data on farming operations and production for policy and planning purposes.

The committee(s) on AEN recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in AEN were as follows: 5 Aye(s): Senator(s) Gabbard, Richards, DeCoite, Rhoads, Awa; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 0 Excused: none.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2318

Legislative bill overview

SB 2318 establishes or modifies requirements for collecting, maintaining, and reporting agricultural statistics in Hawaii. The bill passed committee with amendments on February 4, 2026, and is moving through the legislative process with support from the Agriculture and Environment (AEN) Committee.

Why is this important

Accurate agricultural statistics are essential for farmers, policymakers, and businesses to make informed decisions about Hawaii's food production, land use, and agricultural viability. This bill likely affects how the state tracks farming operations, crop yields, and market conditions, which can influence agricultural policy, funding, and food security initiatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Data collection burden: The bill may require farmers to provide detailed information, raising concerns about compliance costs and privacy for small agricultural operations
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: Without seeing the amendments, it's unclear which agricultural activities are covered or how "statistics" are defined, potentially affecting who must participate
  • Funding and implementation: The fiscal impact of establishing or expanding data collection systems may be contentious, particularly if costs fall on farmers rather than the state

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

Sign in to ask a question.