HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-03-13 Letter to Chair Gabbard re HB 2670, HD 2 Relating to SNAPHarry 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
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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.