Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR49

Introduced
3/10/26  

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Conduct A Study On Hawaii's Food Manufacturing Strengths And Strategic Markets.

Impact

The resolution builds upon Act 237, established in 2025, which created a statewide food and product innovation network. This network aims to foster the development of food and value-added products through facilities that support research, manufacturing, and commercialization. By requesting this study, SCR49 seeks to further solidify the foundation for the food and product innovation network by assessing Hawaii's current capabilities and potential areas where small businesses can thrive, particularly by targeting export opportunities.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 49 (SCR49) requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to conduct a comprehensive study on Hawaii's food manufacturing strengths and the identification of strategic markets for high-value, premium products. This initiative arises from the recognition that Hawaii's economy relies heavily on small businesses, which account for a significant percentage of the workforce and business operations in the state. The resolution emphasizes the importance of nurturing this sector to enhance its competitive position in global markets.

Conclusion

Ultimately, SCR49 represents a strategic move to promote the growth of Hawaii’s food manufacturing sector by harnessing local resources, enhancing workforce skills, and creating a more robust infrastructure for small businesses. By aligning state policies and educational initiatives with the market needs identified through this study, the resolution aims to establish a sustainable economic growth model for Hawaii in the competitive food products sector.

Contention

Among the notable components of the resolution is the call for specific analyses, including a comprehensive cost-of-production assessment that takes into account Hawaii's high operational costs—such as energy and labor—and finding state-level solutions to logistical barriers that hinder entry into desired markets. Additionally, the study will inform necessary updates to educational curricula at institutions like the University of Hawaii to ensure local entrepreneurs are equipped to succeed in producing high-value goods for export.

Companion Bills

HI SR48

Same As Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Conduct A Study On Hawaii's Food Manufacturing Strengths And Strategic Markets.

HI HCR24

Same As Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Conduct A Study On Hawaii's Food Manufacturing Strengths And Strategic Markets.

Previously Filed As

HI HB1407

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

HI SCR121

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Convene A Tourism And Gaming Working Group.

HI HCR192

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Establish A Native Hawaiian Economic Development Working Group.

HI SB582

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

HI HB450

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

HI HCR118

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Sponsor A Michelin Guide For Restaurants Across The State.

HI SB981

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

HI HR114

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Sponsor A Michelin Guide For Restaurants Across The State.

HI SCR61

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Review And Evaluate The Cost-benefit And Return On Investment Of A Possible Sponsorship Of A Michelin Guide For Restaurants Across The State.

HI HCR209

Requesting The State Of Hawaii To Consider Import Substitution As A Key Strategy For Economic Growth And Diversification.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.