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Bill

HB 812

RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Cory Chun and 7 co-sponsors

Bill HB 812 boosts local farmers by amending procurement rules, ensuring public entities prioritize local produce, enhancing market access and supporting Hawaii's agriculture.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#hawaiipublicprocurementcode #localproduce #specifications
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 812

Summary of Bill HB 812: Relating to Agriculture

Overview

Bill HB 812 aims to amend the Hawaii Public Procurement Code to enhance the procurement process for local agricultural products. The intent of the bill is to support local farmers and promote the use of locally sourced produce in public procurement.

Key Provisions

  • Amendments to the Hawaii Public Procurement Code: The bill proposes specific changes to the existing procurement code to facilitate the inclusion of local produce in government contracts.
  • Local Produce Specifications: It establishes guidelines for the specifications of local agricultural products, ensuring that public entities prioritize purchasing from local farmers.
  • Encouragement of Local Agriculture: The bill seeks to create a more favorable environment for local agricultural producers by increasing their access to government contracts.

Impact

  • Local Farmers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be local farmers and agricultural producers in Hawaii, as it aims to increase their market opportunities through government procurement.
  • Public Entities: Government agencies involved in procurement will need to adapt their processes to comply with the new specifications for local produce.
  • Economic Growth: By prioritizing local agriculture, the bill is expected to contribute to the economic growth of Hawaii’s agricultural sector, potentially leading to job creation and increased food security.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • First Reading: January 21, 2025
  • Committee Review:
    • The bill was referred to the Agriculture (AGR) and Finance (FIN) committees.
    • On February 5, 2025, it was scheduled for a hearing in the AGR committee.
    • On February 7, 2025, the AGR committee recommended that the measure be passed with amendments.
  • Second Reading: The bill passed its second reading on February 11, 2025, as amended in HD 1, and was referred to the FIN committee for further consideration.

Voting Record

  • AGR Committee Vote: 5 Ayes, 0 Noes, 1 Excused
  • Second Reading Vote: Passed with none voting aye with reservations; 1 No vote (Representative Pierick) and 2 Excused (Representatives Cochran and Ward).

Conclusion

Bill HB 812 represents a significant step towards enhancing the role of local agriculture in Hawaii's public procurement processes. By amending the Hawaii Public Procurement Code, the bill aims to foster a stronger local agricultural economy and ensure that public entities support local farmers. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final form and implementation of the bill.

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

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