H.B. 247 Summary

• Increases local agricultural product purchase requirements for the Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of Public Safety, Department of Defense, and University of Hawaii system to 25% by 2025, 30% by 2030, 35% by 2035, 40% by 2040, 45% by 2045, and 50% by 2050 (measured by percentage of total food cost).

• Expands annual reporting requirements to include total spending by market channels: direct purchases from farmers/fishers/ranchers, food hubs/farmer cooperatives, and specialty/broadline distributors.

• Requires departments and University of Hawaii system to submit corrective action plans with specific steps and deadlines if they fail to meet benchmarks.

• Repeals Section 302A-405.6 establishing a separate 30% locally-sourced food goal for public schools by 2030, consolidating all standards under unified benchmarks.

• Appropriates funds to establish a full-time farm-to-state liaison position within the Office of the Governor to facilitate reporting and local food procurement.