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Bill Summary · SB 509

Legislative bill overview

SB 509 is a Hawaii bill relating to food supply that was introduced in January 2025 and referred to the Economic Development & Tourism (EDT/AEN) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees. The bill has passed first reading but was carried over to the 2026 legislative session, meaning it did not advance to a vote during the 2025 session.

Why is this important

Hawaii's food supply is a critical infrastructure issue, as the state imports approximately 85-90% of its food and faces unique vulnerabilities related to shipping disruptions, price volatility, and food security. Legislation addressing food supply can impact agricultural development, local food production incentives, supply chain resilience, and food costs for residents.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and specificity unclear — The bill's exact provisions are not detailed in the available information, making it difficult to assess whether it addresses production incentives, import regulations, local farming support, or emergency preparedness
  • Budget and fiscal impact — Referral to WAM suggests potential appropriations; stakeholders may debate whether proposed solutions justify public expenditure
  • Agricultural vs. commercial interests — Tensions may exist between supporting local farmers and producers versus established food distribution networks and retailers

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

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