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HB 427

RELATING TO BIOSECURITY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 39 co-sponsors

HB 427 strengthens Hawaii's biosecurity by establishing protocols for invasive species management, enhancing agricultural support, and protecting unique ecosystems.

Act 236, 06/27/2025 (Gov. Msg. No. 1338).
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Bill Summary · HB 427

Summary of HB 427 - Relating to Biosecurity

Bill Number: HB 427
Status: Act 236, 06/27/2025 (Gov. Msg. No. 1338)
Introduced: January 17, 2025
Sponsors: Representatives Amato and Nakamura (Primary Sponsors)

Purpose and Intent

HB 427 aims to enhance Hawaii's biosecurity measures by establishing comprehensive protocols for managing invasive species and pests. The bill seeks to improve the state's readiness and response capabilities in the event of biosecurity threats, ensuring the protection of Hawaii's unique ecosystems and agricultural resources.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  • Biosecurity Emergency Declaration: Establishes a framework for declaring biosecurity emergencies, allowing for swift action in response to threats.

  • Biosecurity and Pest Management Plans: Mandates the development of strategic plans to manage invasive species and pests effectively.

  • Certified Biosecurity Compliance Auditors: Introduces a certification program for auditors who will ensure compliance with biosecurity regulations.

  • Department of Agriculture (DOA) and Hawaii Invasive Species Council: Enhances the roles of these entities in implementing biosecurity measures and managing invasive species.

  • Pest Dashboard: Creates a digital platform for tracking pest management efforts and biosecurity threats.

  • Plant Care Component Program: Implements a program focused on the care and management of plants to prevent pest infestations.

  • Quarantine and Readiness Agreements: Establishes protocols for quarantine measures and readiness agreements to prepare for potential biosecurity incidents.

  • Penalties: Introduces penalties for non-compliance with biosecurity regulations to ensure adherence to the new standards.

  • Rules and Transitional Facilities: Provides guidelines for the establishment of transitional facilities for managing biosecurity threats.

Impact

The enactment of HB 427 will primarily affect:

  • Agricultural Producers: Farmers and agricultural businesses will benefit from enhanced pest management strategies and support from the DOA.

  • Environmental Agencies: Agencies involved in conservation and environmental protection will have clearer guidelines and resources to combat invasive species.

  • General Public: The public will benefit from improved biosecurity measures that protect Hawaii's unique ecosystems and agricultural resources.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • Passed Final Reading: April 30, 2025
  • Transmitted to Governor: May 1, 2025
  • Signed into Law: June 27, 2025

The bill underwent several amendments and committee reviews before its final passage, reflecting a collaborative effort to address biosecurity concerns effectively.

Conclusion

HB 427 represents a significant step forward in strengthening Hawaii's biosecurity framework. By establishing comprehensive management plans and enhancing compliance measures, the bill aims to protect the state's unique environment and agricultural economy from the threats posed by invasive species and pests.

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

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