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 farm-to-school program requires the Department of Education to help complex areas and individual schools create partnerships with local farmers to source 30% of their food locally by 2030, with schools tracking their progress and the department potentially accepting donations to support these efforts. Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, the department may introduce a plant-based meal program that offers meals consisting entirely of minimally processed fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices, with no animal products. The department will be required to submit an interim report in 2027 and a final report in 2028 detailing the program's progress, findings, and recommendations. The legislature supports these initiatives based on evidence that such programs can improve student health, support local agriculture, reduce food waste, and potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases. The plant-based meal program will be a pilot effort that expires on June 30, 2028, allowing the state to evaluate its effectiveness and potential long-term implementation.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=235&year=2025