Bill > HCR144

This concurrent resolution requests the Chairperson of the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to work with various state and county agencies, community groups, and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander leaders to create a comprehensive plan to address food insecurity across the state. Food insecurity, meaning a lack of consistent access to enough nutritious and affordable food, affects a significant portion of households in Hawaii, particularly those with children, young adults, and those relying on federal nutrition assistance. The resolution highlights that certain communities face higher rates of food insecurity due to poverty, limited access to healthy and culturally appropriate foods, and systemic barriers, often compounded by geographic isolation and historical inequities. The proposed strategy should be based on data and focus on equity, assessing barriers to food access, aligning with programs for individuals with disabilities and functional needs, recommending policies to reduce food costs and increase access to nutritious and local foods, coordinating with existing county efforts, and supporting community-led solutions. The Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity is asked to submit this strategy to the Legislature by early 2028 to guide future legislation and policy actions.