HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-02-26 Letter to Sylvia Luke and Ty J.K. Cullen re HB 2670, HD 1 Relating to SNAPHarry Ki
Mayor
Camay
Offirr of
sr
„4
1
Wil Okabe
Afanaging Director
Barbara J. kossow
Deputy Managing Director
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
February 26, 2018
Representative Sylvia Luke, Chair
Committee on Finance
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 308
Honolulu, HI 96813
Representative Ty J.K. Cullen, Vice -Chair
Committee on Finance
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 308
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Luke, Vice -Chair Cullen and Committee Members:
Re: HB 2670, HD 1 Relating to SNAP
Hearing Date: 02/27/18 – 12:00 pm; House Conference Room 308
Thank you for this opportunity to support HB2670, HD 1.
It is my understanding that HB 2670, HD 1 proposes to build on a Big Island pilot program that
was launched by food retailer KTA and our local Food Basket. 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 1, also limits purchases to fresh fruit and vegetables,
but would seem to somewhat dilute the "local" aspect of the program by allowing the purchase at
institutions that may be acquiring their produce from overseas suppliers. I am not sure that is a positive
amendment, but at east 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.
I defer to others whether HB 2670, HD 1, or SB 2398, SD 1, is a better approach. Perhaps the
third option—all retailers participate but only local produce qualifies—would be even better. In any case, 1
think this is a program that should be encouraged, and I hope you will act favorably on this measure.
Respectfully submitted,
Harry Ki
Mayor, County of Hawaii
County of Flawai`i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.