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Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025
2/12/2025, 3:08 AM
Summary of Bill S 85
Rapid Ohia Death is a fungal disease that has been spreading rapidly throughout Hawaii, particularly affecting the native Ohia trees. These trees are not only important for the ecosystem but also hold cultural significance for the people of Hawaii. The disease has been causing widespread die-offs of Ohia trees, threatening the biodiversity and stability of Hawaii's forests.
The bill seeks to allocate resources and funding to research, monitor, and control the spread of Rapid Ohia Death. It also aims to engage local communities, scientists, and stakeholders in the development of strategies to combat the disease. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for public education and outreach efforts to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the Ohia trees and the impacts of Rapid Ohia Death. Overall, Bill 119 s 85 is a proactive and collaborative approach to addressing the threat of Rapid Ohia Death in Hawaii. By bringing together federal, state, and local partners, the bill aims to protect the native Ohia trees and preserve the unique ecosystems of Hawaii for future generations.
Congressional Summary of S 85
Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025
This bill establishes requirements to research and control the fungus Ceratocystis, known as Rapid Ohia Death, which has killed more than a million native trees in Hawaii.
Specifically, the Department of the Interior must partner with the Department of Agriculture and Hawaii to control and address the fungus.
In addition, the U.S. Geological Survey must continue to research Rapid Ohia Death vectors and transmission.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service must continue to partner with Hawaii and local stakeholders to manage ungulates (e.g., certain mammals such as deer) in Rapid Ohia Death control areas on federal, state, and private land.
Finally, the Forest Service must continue to provide (1) financial assistance to prevent the spread of the fungus and to restore the native forests of Hawaii, and (2) staff and necessary infrastructure funding to the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry to research the fungus.
