RELATING TO MEAT DONATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Troy Hashimoto

Bill SB 1230 allows safe donation of Axis deer meat to charities, boosting food security and reducing waste while protecting donors from liability.

Pass First Reading

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Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 1230 aims to facilitate the donation of meat, specifically from Axis deer, to charitable organizations, nonprofit entities, and religious groups. The legislation seeks to enhance food security by allowing the safe and regulated distribution of wild game meat, thereby addressing both food waste and hunger in the community.

Key Provisions

Meat Donation Framework: The bill establishes guidelines for the donation of meat from Axis deer, ensuring that the process adheres to health and safety standards set by the Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture.

Eligibility: Charitable organizations, nonprofit organizations, and religious entities are identified as eligible recipients for meat donations, promoting community support and food assistance.

Liability Protections: The bill includes provisions that protect donors from liability when donating meat, provided that the donation complies with the established regulations.

Regulatory Oversight: The Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health are tasked with overseeing the implementation of the meat donation program, ensuring compliance with health regulations.

Who Would Be Affected

Donors: Individuals and organizations that hunt Axis deer will have a structured way to donate excess meat, reducing waste and contributing to community welfare.

Recipients: Charitable organizations, nonprofits, and religious groups will benefit from an additional source of protein for their food assistance programs, helping to alleviate food insecurity.

Regulatory Bodies: The Departments of Agriculture and Health will have increased responsibilities in monitoring and regulating the meat donation process.

Legislative Timeline and Procedural Aspects

Introduced: January 21, 2025

First Reading: January 21, 2025

Committee Actions:

Referred to the committees on Agriculture (AGR), Health (HLT), and Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA) on March 6, 2025.
Passed First Reading on March 6, 2025.
Reported from the Committee on Health and Human Services (HHS) with amendments on February 11, 2025.
Passed Second Reading with amendments on February 11, 2025.
Passed Third Reading with amendments on March 4, 2025, with unanimous support (25 Ayes).

Companion Bill: HB 1334 is identified as a related measure.

Conclusion

SB 1230 represents a proactive approach to addressing food waste and hunger through the regulated donation of Axis deer meat. By establishing a clear framework for meat donation, the bill aims to enhance food security while ensuring public health and safety. The ongoing legislative process indicates strong support for the bill, with multiple readings and committee endorsements leading to its current status.

Bill