HI HB1450

Establishes a three-year climate-resilient food systems grant pilot program administered by the Department of Agriculture to provide grants to agricultural producers for acquisition of equipment, technology, and related costs.

Grants awarded on competitive basis through request for applications, with applicants required to match up to 20% of total project costs.

Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents operating small family farms or ranches (defined as farms with gross annual income under $350,000) and comply with federal food safety, anti-discrimination, and other applicable laws.

Department of Agriculture must submit interim reports to the Legislature in 2026 and 2027, and a final report by 2028 with recommendations on whether to make the program permanent.

Appropriates unspecified funds from general revenues for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027; program terminates June 30, 2028; effective July 1, 2050.