THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	303
THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE, 2019
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to gardens.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that school gardens provide interactive, hands-on learning environments in which students learn fundamental concepts about nutrition and obesity prevention; composting and waste management techniques; and cultural and historical aspects of the local food supply. School gardens foster a better understanding and appreciation of where food comes from, how food travels from the farm to the table, and the important role of agriculture in the state and global economy. School gardens enhance many subject areas, including science, environmental education, mathematics, reading, writing, art, nutrition, physical education, history, and geography.

The legislature further finds that in addition to school gardens, community gardens create welcoming and attractive neighborhoods, while serving as an important outdoor recreational opportunity for residents. Community gardens have many benefits, including the promotion of healthy populations, thereby reducing public health costs; the beautification of neighborhoods and public spaces, which may increase property values; and the general advancement of residents' health and welfare by encouraging a sense of community.

The purpose of this Act is to authorize the department of education and the Hawaii community development authority to develop programs that provide incentives to establish gardens on school campuses and within communities.

SECTION 2. Chapter 302A, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"§302A‑   Gardening programs. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the department may develop programs that provide incentives for the development of gardens on school property; provided that the college of tropical agriculture and human resources of the University of Hawaii at Manoa shall be consulted regarding best practices in gardening, including vertical gardening, aquaponics, and community gardening."

SECTION 3. Section 206E-4.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:

"[[]§206E-4.5[] Urban gardening programs.] Gardening programs. Notwithstanding any [other provision of] law[,] to the contrary, the authority may develop programs that provide incentives for the development of [housing projects that incorporate urban gardening programs;] gardens in housing projects, communities, and schools; provided that the college of tropical agriculture and human resources of the University of Hawaii at Manoa shall be consulted regarding best practices in [urban] gardening, including vertical gardening, aquaponics, and community gardening."

SECTION 4. Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

HCDA; Department of Education; School Gardens; Community Gardens

Description:

Authorizes the department of education and Hawaii community development authority to develop programs that provide incentives to establish gardens on school campuses and within housing projects and communities.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.