HR81

WHEREAS, a diet that contains lots of fruits and vegetables is strongly associated with a reduced risk of some cancers and heart disease; and

WHEREAS, diets with more vegetables are associated with a lower body mass index (a measure of body fat); and

WHEREAS, plant-based diets are generally rich in fiber, phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which in turn strengthens the immune system and slows down the aging process; and

WHEREAS, five diet-related chronic diseases cost the U.S. economy a staggering $1 trillion each year as an estimate of direct medical costs and the indirect impact of productivity losses due to illness and premature death associated with chronic heart disease and stroke, obesity, cancer, diabetes, and osteoporosis; and

WHEREAS, Act 175, Session Laws of Hawaii 2021, requires thirty per cent of food served in public schools to consist of locally sourced products by 2030; and

WHEREAS, increased use of locally grown agricultural products, fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and poultry products in Hawaii schools and other public institutions will truly be a significant step towards increasing Hawaii's levels of self-sufficiency; and

WHEREAS, learning where food comes from is an important part of Hawaii's children’s education. Farm to School involves more than just learning the basics of food production, it provides the opportunity for Hawaii's children to understand and appreciate the importance of agriculture; and

WHEREAS, increased local fruits and vegetables will also support the growth of agriculture in our states and help diversify our economy from its dependence on tourism; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Thirty-second Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2023, Department of Education is urged to incorporate more plant-based options in local schools; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED Department of Education is requested to take actions to increase the procurement of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution be transmitted to Governor, Chairperson of Board of Education, the Superintendent of the Department of Education, Executive Director of the State Public Charter School Commission, President of the Hawaii State Teachers Association, Chairman of the Department of Health and the Chairman of the Department of Agriculture.

	OFFERED BY:	_____________________________

Report Title:

Urging the Department of Education to incorporate more plant based options in local school meals

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.R. NO.	81
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2023
STATE OF HAWAII