HI HCR195

Requests the Department of Education to convene a Farm-to-School and Local Food Procurement Working Group to address findings from Auditor's Report No. 26-08 on Hawaii's local food procurement initiatives.

The audit identified systemic challenges including lack of a comprehensive strategic plan, limited coordination with local agricultural producers, procurement processes that don't readily identify local products, and inadequate data collection and reporting systems.

Working group would consist of up to 17 members including DOE administrators, Department of Agriculture representatives, farmers, food distributors, school officials, nutrition professionals, community organizations, and one legislator from each chamber.

The group is tasked with developing strategies to improve local food data reporting, strengthen procurement practices, enhance coordination with Hawaii's agricultural sector, and identify opportunities to build local food supply chains for schools.

Department of Education must submit a report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2027 Regular Session.