RELATING TO THE AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1325 boosts the Agribusiness Development Corporation's role in supporting agribusiness and agricultural tourism, enhancing definitions and reducing barriers for growth.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

#adc #agriculturaltourism #definition #enterprise

Summary of SB 1325: Relating to the Agribusiness Development Corporation

Bill Number: SB 1325
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Status: Reported from EDT (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 395) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
Classification: Bill
Subject: Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC), Agricultural Tourism, Definition, Enterprise

Purpose and Intent

SB 1325 aims to enhance the operations and effectiveness of the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC) by updating definitions and provisions related to agricultural tourism. The bill seeks to promote agribusiness enterprises and support the growth of agricultural tourism as a viable economic sector within the state.

Key Provisions

Definition Updates: The bill proposes to clarify and expand the definitions related to agricultural tourism, ensuring that they align with current industry practices and standards.

Support for Agribusiness Enterprises: SB 1325 emphasizes the role of the ADC in fostering agribusiness development, which may include providing resources, guidance, and support to agricultural tourism initiatives.

Amendments to Existing Regulations: The bill includes amendments that may streamline processes and reduce barriers for agribusinesses looking to engage in agricultural tourism, thereby encouraging more participation in this sector.

Affected Parties

Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC): The primary agency responsible for implementing the provisions of this bill, which will enhance its capacity to support agribusiness and agricultural tourism.

Agricultural Producers and Entrepreneurs: Individuals and businesses involved in agriculture who may benefit from the expanded definitions and support mechanisms for agricultural tourism.

Tourism Sector: The bill may also positively impact the tourism industry by promoting agricultural tourism as an attractive option for visitors, potentially increasing foot traffic and revenue for local businesses.

Legislative Timeline

January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and pending introduction.

January 23, 2025: Passed First Reading.

January 27, 2025: Referred to EDT and WAM committees.

February 3, 2025: Public hearing scheduled for February 6, 2025.

February 6, 2025: EDT committee recommended the measure be passed with amendments.

February 12, 2025: Report adopted; passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to WAM.

Related Bills

HB 1006: This bill serves as a companion to SB 1325, indicating a parallel legislative effort to address similar issues within the agribusiness and agricultural tourism sectors.

This summary provides an overview of SB 1325, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the parties that would be affected by its enactment. The bill represents a significant step towards enhancing the agribusiness landscape and promoting agricultural tourism in the state.