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KTA
AIPEB STORES
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bill 83
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September 15, 2025
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Committee on Environmental and Natural Resource Management
Dear Chair Villegas, Vice -Chair Kagiwada and Members of the Committee:r
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RE: Bill 83 - Relating to Plastic and Polystyrene Waste
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KTA Super Stores appreciates the intent of Bill 83 and shares the County's goal of reducing
disposable plastics and polystyrene. However, the measure as written does not distinguish
between "prepackaged food" and "prepared food," creating challenges for local producers.
Both Honolulu and Maui Counties adopted similar ordinances but exempted prepackaged food.
Honolulu's Disposable Food Ware Ordinance defines it as prepared food sealed or wrapped to
prevent direct human contact before sale - such as bentos, kimchi, salads, tofu, sandwiches, desserts,
and drinks. Honolulu also exempted packaging for raw meat, poultry, seafood, unprepared
produce, uncooked eggs, shelf -stable items, and catered food.
Without a comparable exemption, local manufacturers like Mountain Apple Brand vendors, may
be forced to use packaging that is unavailable, unsuitable, or prohibitively expensive, putting local
products at a disadvantage against imports. For prepared foods, compliant containers often cost
several times more than plastic equivalents, especially for hot or oily items, increasing costs likely
passed on to families already struggling with HawaiTs high cost of living.
We respectfully request the Committee consider:
• Including an exemption for prepackaged food, consistent with Honolulu's ordinance.
• Establishing an implementation timeline to ease transition and minimize impact.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
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Toby B. Taniguchi
President & CEO
50 E. Puainako St - Hilo, HI 96720 - 808-959-4575 - 808-959-8050 (fax)