Schatz Statement on Closure of Maui Sugar Plantation

Honolulu, HI – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement today following the announcement that the Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Co. Plantation on Maui will close by the end of the year:

“I am deeply saddened by today’s announcement that sugar operations at HC&S will close this year.  For over 130 years, sugar production on Maui was more than a business, spawning a way of life and generations of hard working women and men who made our State remarkable and great.  I will work with Governor Ige and other public officials to ensure that we honor the legacy of these generations by finding opportunities for those affected by the closedown.  Similarly, it is essential that we work with Alexander & Baldwin in a coordinated effort to keep these extraordinary lands in active agriculture.”