HI HB649

Establishes a three-year pilot program on Oahu administered by the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to provide a state-sponsored kitchen for new businesses to process blemished crops into value-added products.

Defines "blemished crop" as fruits, vegetables, or agricultural products unsuitable for fresh sale due to cosmetic reasons (color, shape, size, bruising) but otherwise safe for human consumption.

Requires preliminary reports to the legislature before the 2016 and 2017 regular sessions, and a final report before the 2018 regular session with recommendations on whether to extend the program statewide.

Appropriates unspecified funds from general revenues for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 to establish and administer the pilot program.

Takes effect July 1, 2015, with the goal of reducing agricultural waste, diverting rejected produce from landfills, and stimulating economic development through value-added agricultural products.