THE SENATE

S.B. NO.

2718

THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026

S.D. 1

STATE OF HAWAII

 

 

 

 

 

 

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

 

RELATING TO THE FOOD HUB PILOT PROGRAM.

 

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

 

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the State's overwhelming reliance on imported food poses a significant risk to the State's food security, economic stability, and community health.  The COVID-19 pandemic, combined with recent federal cuts to agricultural and nutrition programs, has revealed vulnerabilities in the State's food system, particularly for small farmers and low-income families.

     The legislature further finds that community-based food hubs, such as those supported under Act 313, Session Laws of Hawaii 2022, have demonstrated measurable success in strengthening local food networks by connecting the State's farmers directly to consumers, schools, and institutions. 

Despite recent federal funding losses, these organizations continue to build market access for local farmers and connect ulu-based foods to schools, hospitals, and consumers statewide.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate additional funds to for the continued implementation of the food hub pilot program.

     SECTION 2.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the continued implementation of the food hub pilot program established pursuant to Act 313, Session Laws of Hawaii 2022, including the awarding of grant moneys to qualifying food hubs.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of agriculture and biosecurity for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.

 

 

 

Report Title:

Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity; Food Hub Pilot Program; Appropriation

 

Description:

Appropriates funds to the Food Hub Pilot Program.  Effective 7/1/2050.  (SD1)

 

 

 

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