Bill > SCR41

This concurrent resolution, passed by the Hawaii Legislature, requests the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to work with various state and county agencies, as well as community groups, to create a comprehensive plan to address food insecurity across the state. Food insecurity means people don't have consistent access to enough affordable, nutritious food, and the resolution highlights that a significant portion of Hawaii's households, particularly those with children, young adults, and those relying on federal nutrition assistance, are experiencing this problem. The plan should be based on data and focus on fairness, identifying barriers to food access (economic, geographic, cultural, and programmatic), improving access for people with disabilities by connecting them with existing programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), and recommending ways to lower food costs and increase access to healthy, culturally appropriate foods, including traditional Hawaiian and local options. It also needs to align with existing county plans and support community-led initiatives that promote independence and dignity. The Department is asked to submit this strategy to the Legislature by early 2028 to guide future legislation and funding decisions.