Bill > SB235

This bill aims to improve school meal programs in Hawaii by establishing two key initiatives: a farm to school program and a plant-based meal option. The bill requires the Department of Education to help complex areas and individual schools develop farm to school meal programs that will source 30% of their food locally by 2030, drawing inspiration from the successful Aina Pono program in Mililani and Kohala school districts. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, the department may implement a plant-based meal program that provides meals consisting entirely of minimally processed fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices, without any animal products. Schools will be authorized to collaborate with nonprofit organizations and private entities to achieve these goals, and the department must track progress and submit reports to the legislature in 2027 and 2028. The bill highlights potential benefits including improved student health, support for local agriculture, reduced environmental impact, and increased opportunities for students to make environmentally conscious food choices. The plant-based meal program is set to be a temporary pilot program that will expire on June 30, 2028, allowing the department to assess its effectiveness and potential long-term implementation.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=235&year=2026