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HR 23

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM TO CONDUCT A STUDY ON HAWAII'S FOOD MANUFACTURING STRENGTHS AND STRATEGIC MARKETS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Gedeon and 9 co-sponsors

Hawaii requests a state study of local food manufacturing capabilities and market opportunities to address high import dependency and explore economic development potential.

Reported from ECD (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1640-26), recommending referral to AGR.
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Bill Summary · HR 23

Legislative bill overview

HR 23 requests that Hawaii's Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) conduct a comprehensive study examining the state's food manufacturing capabilities, competitive advantages, and potential strategic markets. The bill seeks to identify opportunities for expanding Hawaii's food production sector and its economic viability.

Why is this important

Hawaii imports approximately 85-90% of its food supply, creating economic vulnerability and high consumer costs. A strategic study could help the state develop local food manufacturing capacity, reduce import dependency, create jobs, and support agricultural diversification—issues particularly relevant given Hawaii's geographic isolation and limited arable land.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation: The study requires government resources with no specified budget, timeline, or guaranteed action on findings
  • Feasibility concerns: Hawaii faces significant constraints (limited land, high operational costs, small local market) that may limit realistic manufacturing opportunities compared to mainland competitors
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify what "strengths" and "strategic markets" should be analyzed, potentially resulting in an unfocused or overly broad study

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

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