HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-02-11 Letter to Chris Lee and Joy A. San Buenaventura HB 1503, HD1 relating to Agriculture (Agricultural Theft and Vandalism Pilot Project)Harry Kim
Mayor
County of Hawaii
Office of the Mayor
Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy Managing Director
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February 11, 2019
Representative Chris Lee, Chair
Representative Joy A. San Buenaventura, Vice Chair
Committee on Judiciary
Dear Chair Lee, Vice Chair San Buenaventura, and Committee Members:
RE: HB 1503, HD1 Relating to Agriculture (Agricultural Theft and Vandalism Pilot Project)
Thank you for this opportunity to testify in support of HB 1503, HD1.
For about a year, our Prosecuting Attorney's office has had an investigator working on
agricultural crimes, and we have received positive comments from the agriculture community about
his work. The preamble of this bill does a good job of explaining the vulnerabilities agriculture has to
theft and vandalism, and our news media has documented farmers who have gone out of business
because of their losses.
In order to continue the program, state funding is both desirable and appropriate. I hope you
will act favorably on HB 1503, HD1, with an early effective date.
Respectfully Submitted,
Harry Ki
MAYOR
County of Hawai`i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.