Hawaii governor signs bills to help island farmers

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Hawaii governor signs bills to help island farmers

Hawaii governor signs bills to help island farmers

HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie has enacted two bills aimed at helping provide revenue opportunities for local farmers.

One bill allows farmers to sell their products on agricultural districts. It immediately goes into effect.

The other bill exempts certain nonresidential agricultural buildings that are on commercial farms from county building permit requirements. It’s effective July 1.

Abercrombie says the bills he signed Friday empower farmers and help promote diversified agriculture.

The state currently imports about 92 percent of its produce, livestock and dairy products. Some lawmakers would like to see the state become more self-sufficient.