2022 Candidate Question: HDOA Budget

< 2022 Candidate Questionnaire The Hawaii Department of Agriculture has said repeatedly over the last number of years that its budget has been cut so drastically that it cannot perform the various tasks assigned to it by the Legislature. The HDOA’s share of the State’s annual budget is less than one-half of one percent (<.005).…

2022 Candidate Question: USDA Inspection

< 2022 Candidate Questionnaire Question: When we fly to the mainland, USDA agents scan luggage and remove fruits, vegetables and other plant material to prevent damage to mainland farms. When we fly into Hawaii, there is a voluntary disclosure system and “Amnesty Bins”–and no involvement on the part of the USDA. What are your ideas…

2022 Candidate Question: Fair Labeling Laws

< 2022 Candidate Questionnaire Question: In a federal court class action lawsuit, Kona coffee farmers have recovered more than $15 million in settlement payments from companies accused of marketing fraudulent Kona coffee. More effective than lawsuits, however, would be active enforcement of fair labeling laws by the FDA.  What ideas do you have to accomplish…

June 2022 The Independent Voice

The Independent Voice “Best Agricultural Newsletter in Hawaii” Newsletter of the Kona Coffee Farmers Association June 2022 PO Box 5436 Kailua Kona Hawaii 96745 USA www.konacoffeefarmers.org info@konacoffeefarmers.org Contents Legislative Update – The Blend Labeling Bill How Politics Works in Hawaii Mental Health Team Surveys Hawaii Farmers & Ranchers Petition to Support Availability of County Mulch…

April 2022 – The Independent Voice

                        The Independent Voice          “Best Agricultural Newsletter in Hawaii”      Newsletter of the Kona Coffee Farmers Association                                 April 2022            PO Box 5436 Kailua Kona Hawaii 96745 USA                             www.konacoffeefarmers.org    info@konacoffeefarmers.org Contents…