Requests a study of means by which to facilitate and encourage the donation of food by grocers and restaurants to food banks
Impact
The resolution aims to potentially affect state laws surrounding food liability and donation practices. Currently, Louisiana law protects food donors from liability claims connected to conditions of the food, provided any damages do not arise from intentional acts or gross negligence. By encouraging further food donations to food banks, this resolution could increase resources available to combat local food insecurity and might lead to changes in how food donations are managed both legally and operationally in the state.
Summary
HCR143 is a House Concurrent Resolution that urges the Louisiana Food Bank Association to study ways to facilitate and encourage the donation of food by grocers and restaurants to food banks and other charitable organizations. The resolution acknowledges the significant issue of food waste in the United States, where it is estimated that 20-25% of all food produced is discarded, while millions of Americans face hunger. In Louisiana, the resolution highlights that child hunger rates are particularly high, necessitating urgent action to support food donation efforts.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HCR143 appears to be supportive, particularly from advocates concerned about hunger and food waste. There is recognition that while legal protections exist to encourage donations, actual participation by grocers and restaurants remains limited. The resolution seeks to enhance engagement and education among food donors, fostering a culture of philanthropy in the food service industry in Louisiana.
Contention
While there seems to be a general consensus on the need for more food donation, the resolution itself does not appear to face significant contention—rather, it promotes collaboration between the Louisiana Food Bank Association, the Louisiana Restaurant Association, and other stakeholders. The successful outcomes of the study and subsequent recommendations could vary, depending on how gaps in the current food donation framework are identified and addressed, which may lead to discussions on how best to encourage such practices without imposing undue burdens on food donors.
Requests a study of means by which to facilitate and encourage the donation of food by grocers and restaurants to food banks and other charitable organizations which serve the needy
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.