HI HB1536

Establishes an agricultural development and food security program within the Department of Agriculture to increase Hawaii's food self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imported food.

Adds state planning objectives to increase demand for and access to locally grown foods through marketing campaigns, branding/labeling programs, public institution procurement, and food safety certification expansion.

Adds state planning objectives to increase production of locally grown foods by building agricultural workforce, supporting agricultural parks and irrigation systems, developing distribution networks, and improving agricultural infrastructure.

Makes appropriations for fiscal year 2014-2015 for promotional materials, branding programs, farmers' market publicity, farm-to-school pilot programs, school garden development, food safety certification, infrastructure planning, and restoration of food inspection and agricultural statistics positions (specific amounts blank in bill).

Becomes effective July 1, 2014.