Bill > HB497

This bill transfers the Hawaii Child Nutrition Programs Agency from the Department of Education to the Department of Agriculture, establishing it as a formal agency with specific purposes and responsibilities. The agency will serve as the state link between the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Services and local program operators, conducting audits, providing technical assistance, and disbursing federal funds. A key focus of the bill is to create a grant program that supports Hawaii's public schools through funding initiatives such as purchasing locally grown food products, acquiring equipment for preparing local foods, providing professional development on nutrition and farm-to-school connections, and offering technical assistance to increase participation in federal child nutrition programs. The bill outlines detailed requirements for grant applications, including compliance with non-discrimination laws, proper fund usage, and reporting obligations. Additionally, the legislation ensures that current employees of the Child Nutrition Programs will retain their civil service status, benefits, and rights during the transfer to the Department of Agriculture. The bill aims to support Hawaii's goal of providing 30% locally grown food in public schools by 2030 and includes an appropriation of funds to support grant administration for the 2025-2026 school year.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=497&year=2026