Hawaii Senate Introduces SB765 to Strengthen Beekeeping Practices and Support Local Apiaries

Hawaii's Senate has introduced a significant legislative bill, SB765, aimed at enhancing the state's beekeeping industry and addressing the challenges faced by local beekeepers. Introduced on February 5, 2025, the bill seeks to establish a comprehensive apiary program under the Department of Agriculture, which will include dedicated positions for specialists and technicians to support beekeeping practices.

The primary purpose of SB765 is to promote responsible beekeeping while ensuring public safety. The bill outlines key provisions, including the establishment of an apiary program that will employ an apiary specialist, an apiary planner, and two apiary technicians. This initiative is designed to provide beekeepers with the necessary resources and expertise to manage their colonies effectively, particularly in response to aggressive bee behavior.

One of the notable aspects of the bill is the liability protection it offers to registered beekeepers. Those who adhere to industry standards and best management practices will not be held liable for injuries resulting from their apiaries, except in cases of gross negligence. This provision aims to encourage more individuals to engage in beekeeping without the fear of legal repercussions.

The bill also addresses the pressing issue of bee health, defining various terms related to beekeeping, including "apiary," "colony," and "disease." By clarifying these definitions, SB765 aims to create a more structured approach to managing bee populations and mitigating health risks associated with diseases and pests.

While the bill has garnered support from local beekeeping associations and environmental advocates, it has also sparked discussions about the potential economic implications for the state's agriculture sector. Experts suggest that a robust apiary program could lead to increased honey production and pollination services, benefiting local farmers and the economy.

The proposed funding for the apiary program is set to be appropriated from the general revenues of the State of Hawaii for the fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, although specific amounts have yet to be determined. This financial commitment underscores the state's recognition of the importance of beekeeping to both the environment and the agricultural economy.

As SB765 moves through the legislative process, its implications for Hawaii's beekeeping community and the broader agricultural landscape will be closely monitored. The bill is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2050, marking a pivotal step toward fostering sustainable beekeeping practices in the Aloha State.