THE SENATE	S.C.R. NO.	78
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2024
STATE OF HAWAII

SENATE CONCURRENT

RESOLUTION

 

 

Urging the Department of Education to require all public schools and charter schools that serve meals to offer plant-based meal options prioritizing ingredients from locally sourced and locally farmed products.

 

 

 

WHEREAS, the State recognizes the importance of promoting healthy dietary choices among its residents; and

 

     WHEREAS, a plant-based diet can reduce the chances of developing diabetes, lower cholesterol, and decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease; and

 

WHEREAS, the Department of Education plays a crucial role in shaping the lifelong eating habits and preferences of Hawaii residents by exposing youths to new and healthy foods during the school day; and

 

WHEREAS, encouraging the adoption of plant-based meal options in public schools and charter schools will promote the well-being of students and help build a foundation for a healthy lifestyle; and

 

     WHEREAS, incorporating locally sourced and locally farmed ingredients into school meals will also support the State's agricultural industry, help fund local jobs, and potentially enhance the nutritional quality of meals through the use of fresher ingredients; now, therefore,

 

     BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the Thirty-second Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2024, the House of Representatives concurring, that the Department of Education is urged to require all public schools and charter schools that serve meals to offer plant-based meal options, prioritizing ingredients from locally sourced and locally farmed products; and

 

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Concurrent Resolution be transmitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Education and Superintendent of Education.

 

 

 

	OFFERED BY:	_____________________________

 

 

 

 

Report Title:

Department of Education; Charter Schools; Plant-Based Meals; Vegetarian Meals