HI HR236

Requests University of Hawaii, Department of Education, Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, and other state public entities to commit to purchasing locally-produced produce and Hawaii agricultural products for their food programs.

Cites that Hawaii residents spend an estimated $3.7 billion annually on food, with 85-90% imported from outside the state.

Projects that replacing 10% of imported foods with local products would generate $188 million in economy-wide sales, $47 million in earnings, $6 million in state tax revenues, and over 2,300 jobs.

Requires affected agencies to submit a report to the Legislature no later than 20 days prior to the Regular Session of 2011 detailing their purchases of locally-produced food and recommendations for improvement.

Aims to improve meal nutrition in state programs while supporting environmental stewardship, reducing invasive species risk, and preserving agricultural land.