Hawaii Farmers Feel Strain from Federal Fallout
Hawaii's farmers and ranchers are facing uncertainty due to federal policy shifts, government shutdown, and delays in renewing the U.S. Farm Bill, affecting the state's agricultural and food security systems.
Local producers are experiencing disruptions such as stalled U.S. Department of Agriculture loan processing, frozen research grants, and export bottlenecks, which are compounding longstanding challenges tied to Hawaii's isolation and high costs.
The Senate Committee on Judiciary and the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment held an informational briefing to examine the impact of recent federal policy changes, tariffs, and funding cuts on Hawaii's agriculture industry and food production and security.
Recent federal policy changes, tariffs and funding cuts are affecting Hawaii's agriculture industry and the state's food production and security.
Agricultural producers in Hawaii are struggling to cope with these challenges, which are further complicated by the state's fragile agricultural system.
Author's summary: Hawaii farmers face uncertainty due to federal policy shifts.