#Tropical Plant Health Initiative Act

The US Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution Tuesday designating April 2026 as National Native Plant Month, highlighting the role indigenous flora plays in environmental conservation and Hawaiʻi’s cultural heritage.

Tokuda ultimately opposed the measure, citing its failure to address the rising costs facing farmers and producers, support the nutrition needs of working families—from keiki to kupuna—and provide meaningful investment in rural economies. The bill cleared the committee by a vote of 34-17 and now goes to the full House of Representatives for consideration.  

US Rep. Jill Tokuda and US Sen. Mazie K. Hirono have introduced the Tropical Plant Health Initiative Act, legislation aimed at expanding research and grant funding opportunities to help combat pests and diseases affecting tropical plants including coffee plants, macadamia trees and other iconic Hawaiʻi staples.