Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR48

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 study proposed by SR48 aims to assess specific markets that align with Hawaii's food production capabilities and to determine what qualifies as high-value products. By establishing economic metrics and conducting cost-of-production analyses, the state can better identify which local agricultural and manufactured goods have the best potential for market success. This initiative could lead to more informed policies that bolster local industries and improve their competitiveness on a global scale.

Summary

Senate Resolution S.R. No. 48, introduced in the Thirty-third Legislature of Hawaii in 2026, focuses on enhancing the state’s food manufacturing capacity through detailed studies and strategic planning. The resolution requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to conduct a comprehensive study on Hawaii's food manufacturing strengths, competitive advantages, and potential markets for high-value, premium products aimed at export. This effort is seen as critical for bolstering the economic infrastructure that supports small businesses, which represent a substantial portion of Hawaii's economy.

Contention

While SR48 serves a clear purpose of supporting food innovation and small businesses, there are underlying challenges and potential points of contention. The resolution emphasizes the need for a coordinated effort among educational institutions, government bodies, and business leaders, which may raise concerns over the allocation of resources and the prioritization of funding for identified initiatives. Stakeholders might argue about which specific sectors receive attention or funding, potentially igniting discussions about the state's agricultural priorities in light of its unique geographic and environmental constraints.

Further_steps

Moreover, the resolution discusses enacting recommendations that arise from the study, which could shape future state policies for economic development resources as well as business incubation programs. This calls for a careful balancing of interests between various agencies and entities involved, ensuring that proposed measures do not overlook the diverse needs of Hawaii's communities, especially in the context of food security and sustainability.

Companion Bills

HI HR23

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 SCR49

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 HCR192

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

HI SCR121

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Convene A Tourism And Gaming 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 SB981

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 HR114

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

HI SR46

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.