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SB 3245

RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Angus McKelvey and 1 co-sponsor

SB 3245 modifies Hawaii's food assistance program; current early-stage status prevents assessment of specific policy changes and fiscal impacts.

Received notice of passage on Final Reading in House (Hse. Com. No. 888).
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Bill Summary · SB 3245

Legislative bill overview

SB 3245 is a Hawaii bill currently in early legislative stages that addresses supplemental nutrition assistance (food stamp benefits). The bill was introduced on January 28, 2026, and has advanced to its first reading before being referred to the Health and Human Services (HHS) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees for further consideration.

Why is this important

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) affects hundreds of thousands of low-income Hawaii residents' access to food. Changes to SNAP policy directly impact household food security, poverty rates, and state budget allocations, making this relevant to vulnerable populations and fiscal planning.

Potential points of contention

  • Unclear scope: Without the bill's specific text available, it's unclear whether it expands benefits (potentially increasing state costs), restricts eligibility, or restructures program administration—each approach generates different political opposition
  • Budget implications: Any SNAP expansion requires state or federal funding; restrictions raise equity concerns about food insecurity among vulnerable groups
  • Federal coordination: Hawaii's program operates within federal SNAP framework; state modifications must comply with federal guidelines, limiting flexibility

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

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