Bill > SB736

This bill seeks to improve school meal programs in Hawaii by establishing two key initiatives: a farm-to-school recognition program and mandatory plant-based meal options in high schools. The first initiative will create a program where where schools can develop plans to source 30% of their food locally by 2030, with theives department of education establishing guidelines and potential rewards for participating schools. The second initiative requires all public high schools to offer at least one plant-based meal in choice in their. The legislature's rationale for these changes includes environmental considerations (noting that agricultural production generates significant greenhouse gas emissions), potential health benefits of reducing meat consumption, and promoting local agriculture. The bill highlights that plant-based dioptionsings can potentially reduce risks of chronic diseases like diabetes diabetes and cardiovcardiovascular disease while also supporting local farming jobs. The department of education will be responsible for develop creating implementation guidelines, including nutritional standards and menu planning. High schools will also have flexibility to potentially designate specific days for exclusively plant-based meal offerings. The bill will take effect immediately upon approval, representing a significant step towards more more sustainable and health-conscious programs..

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=736&year=2026