Kailua-backed Plant Theft Bill Still Alive At Capitol
By Cynthia Thielen
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As reported by the Windward Islander a few weeks ago, plant theft has negatively impacted Wind-ward residents as well as farmers and nursery owners at an alarmingly increasing rate. The devastating consequence of this crime not only hurts all of us, but robs our community of the unique tropical beauty Hawaii is so famous for.
Many of our friends and neighbors have been personally victimized by plant theft. One Kailua homeowner testified that they had spent thousands of dollars on trees, flowers and plants, not to mention the cost, time and effort required to maintain their yard. Over recent years they have had pikake, pakalana, jade, orchid plants (50), rose plants (15), hibiscus, ginger and numerous other plants taken. Motion sensor lights, cameras, locked gates, and other security devices have been installed, yet plants continue to be stolen. According to testimony given by this homeowner, damage and necessary preventative measures caused by theft have added up to almost $100,000.
Kailua condominium associations have cited numerous losses and also have been forced to install expensive barriers and fences. It is unfortunate that fences have to be erected to protect expensive landscaping when Kailua and the Windward side are renowned for the lush green plants that grow throughout our neighborhoods.
The state Board of Agriculture testified that losses associated with agricultural theft and vandalism has totaled millions of dollars in our state. Theft and vandalism of papaya fields on Oahu and the Big Island resulted in huge financial losses to the farmers and handicapped future production. The Waimanalo Agricultural Association also testified in strong support of a new law, noting that the farmers in Waimanalo have had to deal with theft for a number of years.
The good news is that a bill to prevent plant theft, HB12, has been combined with another bill, HB1524 D2, and is moving through the Legislature. This bill establishes that, in addition to any criminal penalties, a person convicted of plant theft would be required to make payment to the property owner for the value of the stolen agricultural products as well as the cost of replanting the product or commodity.
The community strongly supported this bill, and testimony was provided by individuals who have had private yards vandalized and stripped, as well as nurseries that not only have had valuable plants stolen, but have had to reestablish their stock.
Thank you to all who gave testimony explaining the great need for this legislation and to the Kailua Neighborhood Board for its assistance in this effort. HB1524 D2 now goes to the Senate where it will be assigned and heard in committee again. Your continued support is greatly appreciated and needed in order for this important bill to become law.
Call state Rep. Cynthia Thielen, R-District 50 (Kailua-Kaneohe Bay Drive), at 586-6480 or e-mail .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
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