Bill > HR79

This Resolution requests the Department of Agriculture to create a comprehensive plan to ensure Hawaii's food security, which means all people have consistent access to enough safe and nutritious food. The plan, called a Sustainable Food Security Strategic Plan, should focus on increasing the efficient use of renewable resources for food production, boosting local, diverse agriculture for consumption, making local farms more economically viable, improving access to locally and sustainably grown food, and enhancing biosecurity (protecting against biological threats). To develop this plan, the Department of Agriculture must collaborate with other state agencies like the Department of Transportation and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, as well as interisland shipping companies. Furthermore, the Department of Agriculture is required to submit an annual report to the Legislature, starting in 2020, detailing its progress, findings, recommendations, and any proposed new laws related to this strategic plan. This initiative is prompted by Hawaii's heavy reliance on imported food, the vulnerability of its food supply chain to disruptions, and the desire to strengthen the state's food system for the health and well-being of its residents.