Bill > HB328

This bill aims to enhance school meal programs in Hawaii by establishing two key initiatives: a farm-to-school meal program and a plant-based meal program. The farm-to-school program will require the Department of Education to help complex areas and individual public schools develop partnerships that increase locally sourced food to 30% of school meals by 2030, with schools allowed to accept donations and contributions to support these efforts. The plant-based meal program, set to begin in the 2026-2027 school year, will provide optional plant-based meal choices in schools, defined as meals consisting only of minimally processed fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices, excluding all animal products. Schools may establish a specific day of the week for plant-based options, and the Department of Education must submit interim and final reports to the legislature about the program's progress, with the program set to expire on June 30, 2028. The bill is motivated by goals of improving student health, supporting local agriculture, reducing food waste, and providing more diverse and nutritious meal options, drawing inspiration from successful existing programs like Aina Pono and noting trends in other states toward plant-based school meal offerings.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=328&year=2026