HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-04-02 Letter to Donovan M. Dela Cruz and Gilbert S. C. Keith-Agaran re HB 2670, HD 2, SD 1 Relating to SNAPHarry Kim
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Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy A funaging 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
April 2, 2018
Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Chair
Committee on Ways and Means
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 211
Honolulu, HI 96813
Senator Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran, Vice -Chair
Committee on Ways and Means
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 211
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Dela Cruz, Vice -Chair Keith-Agaran, and Committee Members:
Re: HB 2670, HD 2, SD 1 Relating to SNAP
Hearing Date: 04/04/2018 — 10:30 am; Conference Room 21
Thank you for this opportunity to support HB 2670, HD 2, SD 1.
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 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.
HB 2670, HD 2, SD 1 still limits purchases to Hawaii -grown fresh fruit and vegetables, but would
allow a person to shop at a farmersmarket or any other direct food retailer. Opening the program to all
retailers, while still limiting the use of the bonus stamps to local produce only, seems like a very positive
step, since I would be concerned that not all SNAP beneficiaries have easy access to a farmers' market.
My one concern is that I am not sure of the definition of "direct" food retailer. If the legal checkers
say this is not a problem, then I am comfortable.
In any case, I think this is a program that should be encouraged, and I hope you wilt act favorably
on this measure,
Respectfully submitted,
Harry Kial
Mayor, County of Hawaii
County of Ilawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer,