SB2928 Summary

• Establishes a three-year farm to school grant pilot program within the Hawaii Department of Agriculture to provide grants to eligible entities including public schools, charter schools, early care centers, nonprofits, soil and water conservation districts, and registered food producers.

• Grants may support procurement of locally-produced foods, food and agriculture-based educational activities, school gardens, apprenticeships, expansion of existing farm to school programs, and food safety training.

• Requires the Department of Agriculture to collaborate with the Department of Education, Department of Health, and stakeholders to develop rules establishing grant amounts, application procedures, and award criteria that prioritize well-designed programs promoting healthy food, community involvement, and service to low-income students.

• Hawaii Farm to School Coordinator must submit a report to the legislature by 20 days prior to the 2021 regular session on the pilot program's value, outcomes, and recommendations for future legislation.

• Appropriates funds for the grant pilot program, continuation of the Hawaii Farm to School Program and coordinator position, and assistance for farmers and ranchers to obtain USDA Good Agricultural Practices certifications; program repeals June 30, 2021.