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Bill

Bill

SB 690

RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 1 co-sponsor

Bill SB 690 allocates funds to enhance agricultural infrastructure, support agribusiness, and promote sustainable water management, benefiting farmers and local communities.

Referred to EDT/AEN, WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 690

Summary of Bill SB 690: Relating to Agriculture

Bill Number: SB 690
Introduced On: January 17, 2025
Status: Referred to EDT/AEN, WAM
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Agribusiness Development Corporation, Agricultural Infrastructure, Appropriations, Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), Department of Agriculture, Food and Product Innovation Network, General Obligation (GO) Bonds, Waiahole Water System

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 690 aims to enhance agricultural infrastructure and support agribusiness development in the state. The legislation seeks to allocate funding and resources to improve agricultural practices, promote food innovation, and ensure sustainable management of water resources, particularly through the Waiahole Water System.

Key Provisions

  • Funding Appropriations: The bill proposes appropriations for various agricultural initiatives, including:

    • Support for the Agribusiness Development Corporation.
    • Investments in agricultural infrastructure improvements.
    • Financing for the Food and Product Innovation Network to foster innovation in food production and processing.
  • Capital Improvement Projects (CIP): The bill outlines specific capital improvement projects aimed at enhancing agricultural facilities and resources.

  • General Obligation Bonds: It includes provisions for issuing GO bonds to finance the proposed projects, ensuring that funds are available for immediate and future agricultural needs.

Affected Entities

  • Agribusiness Development Corporation: This entity will receive direct support to enhance its capacity to promote and develop agribusiness in the state.

  • Department of Agriculture: The department will play a key role in implementing the provisions of the bill and overseeing the allocation of funds.

  • Farmers and Agricultural Producers: The bill is expected to benefit local farmers and agricultural producers by improving infrastructure and providing access to innovative practices and technologies.

  • Community and Environmental Stakeholders: The emphasis on sustainable water management through the Waiahole Water System will impact local communities and environmental groups concerned with water resource management.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced and passed its first reading.
  • January 23, 2025: Referred to the Economic Development and Technology (EDT), Agriculture and Environment (AEN), and Ways and Means (WAM) committees for further consideration.

Conclusion

SB 690 represents a significant legislative effort to bolster the agricultural sector through targeted funding and infrastructure improvements. By supporting agribusiness development and innovation, the bill aims to enhance food security and sustainability in the state. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final provisions and funding allocations as the bill progresses through committee reviews.

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

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