2018-03-13 Letter to Chair Gabbard re HB 2670, HD 2 Relating to SNAP

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Harry Kim ia vor Wil Okabe illanaging Director Barbara J. Kossow Depu4, ilianoging Director SMT fPatuail Offirr of fir r 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 (808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440 March 13, 2018 Senator ike Gabbard, Chair Committee on Agriculture and Environment Hawaii State Capitol, Room 224 Honolulu, Hi 96813 Dear Chair Gabbard and Committee Members: Re: HB 2670, HD 2 Relating to SNAP Hearing Date: 03-19-18 – 1:45 pm; Conference Room 224 Thank you for this opportunity to support the concept behind HB 2670, HD 2. It is my understanding that the original HB 2670 proposed to build on a Big Island pilot program that was launched by food retailer KTA and our local Food asket. By providing funds that can only be used to purchase locally -grown produce, food stamp recipients are incentivized to buy healthy fruits and vegetables; local farmers gain new customers and make more money; and more food dollars stay in the local economy. The Senate companion bill, SB 2398, SD 2, also limits purchases to fresh fruit and vegetables, but would allow a person to shop at a farmers' market or any other direct food retailer. Depending on the definition of "direct food retailer" (which does not seem to appear in the bill) this might dilute the "local" aspect of the program by allowing the purchase at institutions that may be acquiring their produce from overseas supplierslam not sure that is a positive amendment, but at least the food stamp users would still be seeing nutritional benefits. Or perhaps it is possible to open the program to all retailers but limit the use of the bonus stamps to local produce only, rather than all fresh produce regardless of source. iwould be concerned that not all SNAP beneficiaries have easy access to a farmers' market, but defer to others whether HB 2670, HD 2, or SB 2398, SD 2, is a better approach. Perhaps the third option—all retailers and farmersmarkets participate but only local produce qualifies—would be even better. In any case, I think this is a program that should be encouraged, and !hope you will act favorably on this measure. Respectfully sub ed, Harry Kim Mayor, County of Hawai c County of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.