HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-02-21 Letter to Donovan M. Dela Cruz and Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran re SB 2398, SD 1 Relating to Creating a SNAP Matching ProgramHarry Kim
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Wil Okabe
Afonaging Director
Barbara J. Kossow
emitlavaging Director
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Senator Donovan 1 Dela Cruz, Chair
Committee on Ways and Means
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 211
Honolulu, HI 96813
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February 21 2018
Senator Gilbert 5. C Keith-Agaran, Vice -Chair
Committee on Ways and Means
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 211
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Dela Cruz, Vice -Chair Ke th-Agaran and Committee Members:
Re: SB 2398, SD, 1 Relating to Creating a SNAP Matching Prog ram
Hearing Date: — 11:00 am; Conference Room 211
Thank you for this opportunity to support SB 2398, Sal
it is my understanding that S: 2398 proposed to build on a Big Island pilot program that
was launched by our local Food asket and food retailer KTA. 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.
SB 2398, SD 1 still limits purchases to fresh fruit and vegetables, but somewhat dilutes
the "local" aspect of tie program by allowing the purchase at institutions that may be acquiring
their produce from overseas suppliers. lam not sure that is a positive amendment, but at least
the food stamp users would still be seeing nutritional benefits.
I defer to others whether SB 2398 or SB 2398, SI 1 is a better approach, but in either
case !think this is a program that should be encouraged, and! hope you will act favorably on
this measure.
Harry Kim
ayor, County of Hawail
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