Report Title:

Invasive Species Control

Description:

Appropriates funds to control invasive species (HB157 HD1)

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

H.B. NO.

157

TWENTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2003

H.D. 1

STATE OF HAWAII

 


 

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

making an appropriation for the control of invasive species.

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. Invasive species have caused significant damage to Hawaii's environment as well as the economy. The agricultural industry and the livestock industry, in particular, have been confronted by many invasive species that adversely affect pastures.

Fireweed is an extremely poisonous and aggressive weed and is an example of an invasive species. It invades overgrazed and drought-ridden pastures and is often found along roadsides. Fireweed is toxic to cattle, horses, and other livestock. When ingested, fireweed causes damage to the liver and neurological system, which may eventually lead to death. Symptoms may occur within weeks or months after grazing. Fireweed is also a threat to native Hawaiian plants.

The purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for the control of invasive species.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $1 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2003-2004 and the sum of $1 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2004-2005 for the control of invasive species.

The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of land and natural resources for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2003.