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Bill

SB 1305

RELATING TO THE PESTICIDE USE REVOLVING FUND.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

Hawaii establishes a self-funding revolving fund for pesticide-use programs, with implementation details pending committee review in the 2026 legislative session.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 1305

Legislative bill overview

SB 1305 establishes or modifies a revolving fund mechanism in Hawaii dedicated to pesticide use programs and initiatives. The bill underwent first reading in late January 2025 and was referred to the Agriculture and Environment (AEN) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees before being carried over to the 2026 session, indicating the legislature did not complete action on it during the 2025 session.

Why is this important

Revolving funds create self-sustaining financial mechanisms where revenues from pesticide-related activities or fees fund ongoing programs without requiring annual appropriations. This structure can provide stable, predictable funding for pesticide regulation, research, farmer education, or environmental monitoring—critical functions in Hawaii given the state's agricultural economy and unique island ecosystems vulnerable to pesticide drift and contamination.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee structure and incidence: Whether pesticide users, manufacturers, or the general public bears the cost through new or increased fees, affecting agricultural operating costs and consumer prices
  • Fund use and accountability: How revenues are allocated, what programs qualify, and whether oversight mechanisms ensure funds address legitimate public health or environmental concerns
  • Agricultural versus environmental balance: Tension between supporting farming operations and enforcing strict pesticide regulations in a state where agriculture and environmental protection both carry political weight

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

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