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Bill

SB 2405

RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL WORKFORCE HOUSING.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 7 co-sponsors

SB 2405 modifies Hawaii agricultural workforce housing provisions to improve farm worker residential access, advancing through committee with recommended amendments.

Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 05-01-26 9:15AM; Conference Room 325.
#agriculturalworkforcehousingworkinggroup #appropriation($) #dab #report
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Bill Summary · SB 2405

Legislative bill overview

SB 2405 addresses housing for Hawaii's agricultural workforce by creating or modifying provisions related to residential accommodation for farm workers. The bill has advanced through the Agriculture and Environment Committee with recommended amendments after its January introduction.

Why is this important

Hawaii's agricultural sector faces significant labor challenges, and housing accessibility directly impacts workforce recruitment and retention. Affordable housing for farm workers can support both the viability of local farming operations and food security for island communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding mechanism: Unclear whether the bill provides subsidies, tax incentives, or regulatory changes—and who bears financial responsibility (government, landowners, or agricultural operators)
  • Land use zoning conflicts: Agricultural housing provisions may compete with conservation, residential zoning, or development restrictions on Hawaiian lands
  • Scope and eligibility: Definition of "agricultural workforce" and which farm types qualify could determine who benefits and create fairness concerns across different agricultural sectors

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

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