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GM 1341

Informing the Legislature that on June 27, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1186 SD2 HD3 CD1 (ACT 239).

2025 Regular Session

Act 239 enhances Hawaii's food systems by forming coordination teams, funding efforts, and tackling food insecurity, aiming for sustainable local production by 2030.

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Bill Summary · GM 1341

Summary of GM 1341: Informing the Legislature of Act 239

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: GM 1341
- Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 27, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1186 SD2 HD3 CD1 (ACT 239).
- Status: Received
- Introduced: June 27, 2025
- Classification: Proclamation
- Subject: Act 239

Purpose and Intent

GM 1341 serves as a formal notification to the Hawaii State Legislature that the Governor has signed into law SB 1186, which is now designated as Act 239. The primary focus of Act 239 is to enhance Hawaii's sustainable food systems, addressing critical issues such as food insecurity, local food production, and climate change adaptation.

Key Provisions of Act 239

  1. Establishment of Coordination Teams:

    • The Act creates a statewide interagency food systems coordination team and an interagency food systems working group within the Agribusiness Development Corporation.
    • These entities are tasked with coordinating efforts across various state agencies, producers, retailers, and community organizations to improve Hawaii's food systems.

  2. Funding Appropriation:

    • The Act appropriates $100,000 from the general revenues of the State of Hawaii for the fiscal year 2025-2026 to cover the operating costs of the coordination team and working group.

  3. Goals and Responsibilities:

    • The working group will:
      • Develop governance and decision-making protocols.
      • Coordinate with county and community-led organizations.
      • Identify resources for food systems coordination.
      • Create implementation plans and measure progress toward statewide food systems goals.
      • Submit reports and recommendations to the legislature prior to each regular session.

  4. Implementation Timeline:

    • The provisions of Act 239 will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Impact of the Legislation

  • Target Audience:

    • The legislation aims to benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including local farmers, food producers, retailers, government agencies, and communities facing food insecurity.

  • Addressing Food Insecurity:

    • With nearly one-third of households in Hawaii experiencing food insecurity, this Act seeks to create a more resilient food system that can better respond to crises and enhance local food production.

  • Long-term Goals:

    • Act 239 aligns with Hawaii's broader sustainability goals, including doubling local food production and increasing food exports by 2030, as well as achieving 50% locally sourced food in schools and government entities by 2050.

Conclusion

GM 1341 is a significant legislative step towards improving Hawaii's food systems through coordinated efforts among various stakeholders. By establishing dedicated teams and providing necessary funding, Act 239 aims to create a sustainable, equitable, and resilient food system that addresses the pressing issues of food insecurity and local food production in the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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