Sponsors (2)
The bill directs sustained federal research, restoration, and coordinated response to slow Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death—protecting Hawaiian forests, cultural resources, and local economies—while increasing federal spending and creating risks from uncertain appropriations, added administrative burdens, and potential trade-offs with other local priorities and private land uses.
Federal agencies, researchers, and restoration programs will receive sustained, predictable funding and staffing (authorized $5M/year 2026–2036) enabling multi-year planning and program continuity.
Rural residents, indigenous communities, and tribal-lands residents will see restoration of native ʻōhiʻa forests and detection efforts that help protect watersheds, cultural resources, and local ecosystems.
State and local land managers and tribal authorities will benefit from improved coordination and information-sharing with federal agencies, strengthening technical support for responding to Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death.
Taxpayers will face increased federal spending—including the $5M/year authorization and continued research/assistance—raising federal outlays without specified offsets.
State and local land managers will face uncertainty because the authorization does not guarantee future appropriations, so programs could remain underfunded or expectations unmet.
Federal employees and partner agencies will likely face increased administrative workload as mandated partnerships and multi-agency efforts are implemented, which can divert staff time from other priorities and create overlap.
Based on analysis of 6 sections of legislative text.
Requires federal agencies to continue research, management partnerships, and restoration support for Rapid ʻōhiʻa Death in Hawaii and authorizes $5M annually for FY2026–2036.
Provides federal support to fight the fungus causing Rapid ʻōhiʻa Death in Hawaii by requiring interagency collaboration, continuing research and management partnerships, and authorizing $5 million per year from FY2026 through FY2036 to prevent spread and restore native ʻōhiʻa forests. Federal agencies named to act include the Department of the Interior (USGS and Fish & Wildlife Service) and the Department of Agriculture (Forest Service and ARS).
Introduced January 14, 2025 by Mazie Hirono · Last progress January 14, 2025