Mahiai v. Suwa

OPINION OF THE COURT BY

LUM, C.J.

This is an appeal from the circuit court judgment affirming the decision of the Hawaii Board of Agriculture (“Board”) requiring the slaughter of all cattle on the island of Molokai and imposing a two-year moratorium on ranching operations. Appellants-Appellants Roland Mahiai, et al. (collectively “Ranchers”) contend: 1) the Board lacked authority to implement the program; 2) the hearing officer improperly imposed the burden of proof upon Ranchers; and 3) the Board’s action violated Ranchers’ equal pro tection rights. Appellees-Appellees Jack K. Suwa, Chairman…