Hawaii House Bill HB1293

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/25
• Refer: 1/27/25
• Report Pass: 2/13/25
• Refer: 2/13/25
• Report Pass: 2/28/25
• Engrossed: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/6/25
• Report Pass: 3/20/25
• Refer: 3/20/25
• Report Pass: 4/4/25

Caption

Relating To Department Of Education Procurement.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation will facilitate easier and more efficient procurement methods for local food products by exempting purchases under $250,000 from electronic procurement requirements. It mandates the collection of written quotes, requiring at least three quotes for most purchases while allowing for two quotes for schools in rural areas. This flexibility is particularly aimed at improving access to local food suppliers and ensuring that schools can meet nutritional standards without being hindered by bureaucratic procurement processes.

Summary

House Bill 1293 aims to temporarily modify the procurement process for the Hawaii Department of Education (DOE), specifically focusing on local edible produce and packaged food products. The bill recognizes the significant procurement needs of the DOE, which operates 295 schools and employs approximately 42,000 personnel. The current limit for small purchase procurement—set at $25,000—excludes the DOE from accessing a higher threshold of $100,000 that is available to other state departments. Therefore, this bill proposes an increase in the procurement capacity for local food sources to support educational institutions in meeting their mandate of sourcing at least 30% of their food locally by 2030.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 1293 appears to be supportive, particularly from those who advocate for local agriculture and enhancing nutrition in schools. Supporters believe that the bill will streamline procurement, boost local economies, and improve food options in schools. However, there may be concerns among critics about potential transparency issues related to the exemption from electronic procurement and whether sufficient competitive bidding will be maintained, especially in rural communities.

Contention

The bill is set to sunset on June 30, 2028, and will take effect on July 1, 2050. This timeline suggests a trial period during which the impacts on local food procurement and educational programs can be assessed. Potential points of contention may include the adequacy of the requirement for written quotes and whether this will adequately safeguard against favoritism or lack of competition, particularly in small and remote markets where fewer suppliers may exist.