HI SB235

Requires the Department of Education to authorize complex areas or individual schools to form farm-to-school meal programs through partnerships with nonprofits or private entities to meet the goal of 30% locally sourced food by 2030

Schools participating in farm-to-school programs must maintain data and metrics to track progress toward the locally sourced food goal

Authorizes the Department of Education to establish a plant-based meal program beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, potentially including a designated day each week for plant-based options

Plant-based meals must consist of minimally processed fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices, excluding all animal products including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy

The plant-based meal program would sunset on June 30, 2028, with interim and final reports required to the legislature in 2027 and 2028