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Bill

SB 245

RELATING TO OWNERSHIP OF AGRICULTURAL LAND.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Gabbard

Hawaii bill proposes restrictions on foreign ownership of agricultural land to protect local farming viability and food security amid repeated committee deferrals.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#agriculturallands #exemptions #realproperty #restrictionsonownership
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 245

Legislative bill overview

SB 245 addresses restrictions on foreign ownership of agricultural land in Hawaii. The bill's specific provisions are not detailed in the provided information, but based on the title and sponsor (Senator Mike Gabbard, who has focused on land ownership issues), it likely proposes limitations on non-citizen or foreign entity purchases of agricultural property. The measure has been repeatedly deferred in committee since January 2025.

Why is this important

Hawaii has long grappled with land ownership concentration, with significant acreage controlled by non-resident entities and foreign investors. Agricultural land ownership policies directly affect local food security, farming community viability, and the state's ability to maintain self-sufficiency. This issue resonates particularly in Hawaii due to historical land dispossession and ongoing concerns about external control of critical resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic implications: Restrictions on foreign investment may reduce capital flow into agricultural development, potentially limiting financing options for farm expansion or modernization
  • Constitutional concerns: Foreign ownership restrictions face legal scrutiny under commerce clause and equal protection grounds, raising enforceability questions
  • Definition challenges: Determining what constitutes "foreign ownership" (corporations with foreign shareholders? Non-resident citizens?) creates compliance and administrative complexity
  • Reciprocal trade impacts: Restrictions could trigger retaliatory policies against Hawaiian agricultural exports in other markets

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

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