Bill > HB428

This bill establishes the Hawaii Farm to Families Program to address significant food insecurity in the state, where one in three households struggle to access consistent nutrition and nearly 30% of children live in food-insecure homes. The program will be administered by the Department of Agriculture and will provide funds to food banks to purchase, store, and transport fresh, locally grown food to communities in need at no cost to recipients. The program specifically focuses on supporting Hawaii-grown produce, including fruits, vegetables, livestock products, and aquacultural products, with the dual goals of addressing hunger and supporting local agricultural producers. Food banks participating in the program will work with local farms to create consistent market opportunities, potentially strengthening Hawaii's community food systems and local economy. The bill requires the Department of Agriculture to submit detailed reports to the Legislature in 2026 and 2027, documenting program activities such as funds expended, participating food banks, food purchased and distributed, and food origins. While the specific funding amount is not specified in the bill text, funds will be appropriated from general state revenues, and the program is set to take effect on July 1, 2050. The program aims to address food insecurity, particularly among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities, while also promoting local agriculture and economic resilience.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=428&year=2026