HI SR31

Requests state and county agencies, including the Department of Agriculture, Department of Human Services, Department of Health, and Office of Hawaiian Affairs, to develop a comprehensive statewide food security strategy in coordination with community organizations and Native Hawaiian leaders.

Cites that approximately 32% of Hawaii households experienced food insecurity according to the 2024-2025 State of Food Insecurity report, with 34% of households with children affected and more than one in five households reporting "very low food security."

Notes that food insecurity disproportionately impacts Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Filipino, and other historically marginalized communities due to geographic isolation, poverty, and limited access to culturally relevant foods.

Requires the strategy to assess barriers to food access, analyze climate and economic trends affecting food availability, identify strategies that reduce food insecurity while boosting local agriculture, and include community participation mechanisms.

Participating agencies must submit a report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days prior to the 2027 Regular Session.