Bill > SR82

This resolution urges the Director of Health and the Director of Corrections and Rehabilitation to encourage hospitals and prisons to offer healthier food options that emphasize minimally-processed whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices, and non-dairy beverages, instead of ultra-processed foods. The resolution highlights several key benefits of this dietary approach, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, supporting local farmers, promoting traditional Native Hawaiian practices, and helping to reduce carbon emissions. The resolution cites research from the American Heart Association showing that such a diet can lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions, and notes that many people, particularly Asian-Americans, are lactose-intolerant and would benefit from non-dairy alternatives. By promoting healthier food options in state-licensed hospitals, state-operated prisons, and government-sponsored events, the resolution aims to improve public health, save taxpayer money, and support the state's climate emergency declaration by reducing diet-related greenhouse gas emissions.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SR&billnumber=82&year=2025