SB515

Establishes a fee on sugar-sweetened beverages to fund the Hawaii Healthy Food Incentive Program.

The bill establishes a fee on the distribution and sale of sugar-sweetened beverages in Hawaii, with proceeds invested into the Hawaii Healthy Food Incentive Program. The program provides a dollar-for-dollar match to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program beneficiaries who purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, and proteins at participating retailers. The bill defines "sugar-sweetened beverage" and exempts certain products from the fee. Distributors and retailers must register with the Department of Agriculture and maintain records of sales.