Hawaii committee advances bill to regulate agricultural tourism and protect indigenous culture

Maui County's Council made significant strides in regulating agricultural tourism during their recent meeting on July 8, 2025. The council unanimously voted 7-0 to recommend the passage of Bill 75 CD1, which aims to amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance concerning agricultural tourism activities.

Key amendments include restricting agricultural tourism operations to the hours of 8 AM to 6 PM and removing provisions that allowed for traditional or ancestral activities related to celestial and elemental bodies. The bill also emphasizes the importance of consulting with the Department of Environmental and Cultural Resources (OEV Resources) to prevent cultural appropriation and protect indigenous intellectual property.

The council's discussions highlighted the need for a balance between supporting local farmers and safeguarding cultural practices. While some members expressed concerns about the potential commercialization of agriculture and the dilution of cultural traditions, others praised the bill for its community engagement and the opportunities it presents for farmers.

The bill's revisions were made in response to legal concerns raised by the Department of Corporation Counsel, which prompted the removal of certain enforcement provisions. This has led to debates about the effectiveness of the proposed regulations and the enforcement mechanisms available to ensure compliance.

Council members acknowledged the importance of further refining the bill before its second reading, with suggestions to strengthen the language around consultation requirements with OEV Resources. The council aims to ensure that agricultural tourism activities respect and accurately represent Hawaiian culture, addressing concerns about cultural misappropriation.

As the council moves forward, the implications of these decisions will be closely monitored by community stakeholders, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue between agricultural development and cultural preservation in Maui County.