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, including stalled USDA loan processing, frozen research grants, and export bottlenecks, which are compounding longstanding challenges tied to Hawaii's isolation and high costs.
Recent federal policy changes, tariffs, and funding cuts are affecting Hawaii's agriculture industry and food production and security.
The Senate Committee on Judiciary and the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment held an informational briefing to examine the impact of these changes on Hawaii's agriculture industry.
Author's summary: Hawaii farmers face uncertainty due to federal policy shifts.