Informing the Legislature that on May 14, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1017 HD1 SD1 (ACT 048).

This bill establishes the Greenhouse Gas Sequestration Task Force to develop strategies for increasing carbon absorption in Hawaii's agricultural and natural environments. The task force will work with stakeholders to set measurable benchmarks, identify soil health improvements, and create certification criteria for farming practices that boost carbon sequestration. It will also recommend policies to promote tree planting, compost use, and agricultural techniques that build soil health and reduce emissions. The task force will use existing state funds to support these efforts and make final recommendations to the legislature and governor by 2027. This directly affects state agencies, farmers, and aquacultural businesses through future policy development and potential funding opportunities.