Committee passes amended measure to develop a statewide food‑security strategy

The Committee on Agriculture and Food Systems on April 17 passed SCR 41 SD1 with amendments, directing state and county agencies, in coordination with community‑based organizations, to develop a comprehensive statewide food‑security strategy.

Greg Masakean, who identified himself as president of the Kokua Council and vice president of the Hawaii Alliance for Retired Americans, told the committee he supported the resolution but urged careful attention to cost‑effectiveness. Citing recent reporting and agency discussions, he raised concerns about the cost of school meals and food‑service coordination, saying the average cost of a meal ‘‘is, I think, in excess of $9’’ and warning that wasted food dollars reduce resources available for children and people in need.

In committee, members agreed to amend SCR 41 SD1 by incorporating the contents of HCR 144 HD2 (a companion measure) and to add technical non‑substantive edits for clarity and consistency. The recommendation to pass with amendments was adopted; the transcript notes two excused representatives and shows no recorded 'no' votes during the roll call in the excerpt.

The amended measure directs agencies to coordinate with community groups to produce a statewide strategy; the hearing record emphasizes efficiency, agency coordination and attention to locally produced food in implementation.