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SB 3233

RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL WORKFORCE HOUSING.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Donovan Dela Cruz and 1 co-sponsor

SB 3233 establishes housing provisions for Hawaii's agricultural workforce to address worker shortages and strengthen farming viability across the islands.

Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 05-01-26 9:15AM; Conference Room 325.
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Bill Summary · SB 3233

Legislative bill overview

SB 3233 addresses housing for Hawaii's agricultural workforce by establishing or modifying provisions related to residential accommodations for farm workers. The bill was recently introduced in the Hawaii State Legislature and has advanced through initial procedural steps, currently under review by the Agriculture and Environment (AEN) and Government Operations (GVO) committees, with subsequent consideration by the Ways and Means (WAM) committee expected.

Why is this important

Hawaii's agricultural sector faces chronic workforce shortages partly due to the high cost of living and limited affordable housing options. Inadequate worker housing reduces farm productivity, discourages agricultural employment, and threatens food security on the islands. Addressing agricultural workforce housing could strengthen rural economies and support Hawaii's agricultural sustainability goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding mechanism: Unclear whether the state will subsidize housing directly, offer tax incentives, or require private agricultural operations to fund improvements—each approach has different fiscal implications
  • Land use and zoning conflicts: Agricultural housing provisions may conflict with existing zoning restrictions or conservation priorities in some regions
  • Scope and eligibility: Questions about which farm workers qualify (year-round vs. seasonal), farm sizes covered, and geographic limitations could affect implementation and costs

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

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