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Bill Summary · SB 693

Summary of SB 693: Food Hub Pilot Program

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SB 693
Title: Relating to the Food Hub Pilot Program
Status: Act 185, enacted on June 6, 2025
Introduced: January 17, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Appropriations, Department of Agriculture, Food Hub Pilot Program

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 693 is to establish a Food Hub Pilot Program aimed at enhancing local food systems and improving access to fresh, locally produced food. The bill seeks to support agricultural producers and strengthen food distribution networks within the state.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of the Food Hub Pilot Program: The bill mandates the creation of a pilot program under the Department of Agriculture to facilitate the development of food hubs. These hubs will serve as centralized locations for the aggregation, distribution, and marketing of local food products.

  • Funding Appropriations: The bill includes specific appropriations to fund the pilot program, although the exact dollar amounts are not detailed in the provided information.

  • Support for Local Farmers: The program is designed to provide resources and support to local farmers, helping them to connect with consumers and increase their market reach.

  • Evaluation and Reporting: The Department of Agriculture is tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of the pilot program and reporting findings to the legislature, ensuring accountability and transparency.

Impact

  • Beneficiaries: The bill is expected to benefit local farmers, consumers seeking fresh produce, and communities looking to improve food security and sustainability.

  • Economic Development: By promoting local food systems, the program aims to stimulate economic development in rural areas and support small-scale agriculture.

  • Food Security: The initiative is anticipated to enhance food security by increasing the availability of locally sourced food products.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
  • February 4, 2025: Passed Second Reading as amended and referred to the Ways and Means Committee (WAM).
  • April 30, 2025: Passed Final Reading in the House and Senate with no opposition.
  • June 6, 2025: Signed into law as Act 185.

Sponsors

  • Primary Sponsors:
    • Senator Hashimoto
    • Senator Gabbard
    • Senator Fukunaga
    • Senator Chang

This summary provides a clear understanding of SB 693, its objectives, and its anticipated impact on local food systems and agriculture within the state.

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

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