HI HR145

Requests the Department of Agriculture to convene a working group to examine the 2008 Farm Bill amendment allowing states to apply geographic preference for locally grown or raised agricultural products in federal Child Nutrition Programs.

Working group shall include representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Department of Education, State Procurement Office, Kokua Hawaii Foundation, Hawaii School Garden Network, and Ma'o Organic Farms.

Working group must determine an appropriate geographic preference percentage rate for the Department of Education and identify barriers to using local produce, including menu planning requirements, food safety certifications, seasonal availability, and USDA contracting procedures.

Working group shall explore methods to reduce barriers, assist local farms in becoming more competitive, and identify existing successful farm-to-school partnerships as models.

Working group must submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature, Department of Agriculture, and Department of Education no later than 20 days prior to the 2012 Regular Session and disseminate results to school procurement officers and local farmers.