Requests state entities to work with the Louisiana Food Bank Association to ensure the acquisition and distribution of sufficient food to hungry Louisiana citizens
Impact
The resolution addresses the urgent need for food assistance in Louisiana, a state with significant food insecurity issues. With one in seven residents relying on food banks and a staggering percentage of users being over the age of sixty-five, HR181 aims to strengthen the existing food distribution frameworks. The support for food banks is crucial in light of economic struggles that have heightened reliance on their services, exacerbated by diminishing federal food resources amid rising costs.
Summary
House Resolution 181 urges the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services, the division of administration, and the office of the governor to collaborate with the Louisiana Food Bank Association. The intent is to ensure the acquisition and distribution of sufficient food to Louisiana citizens in need, particularly targeting vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. This resolution highlights the crucial role that food banks play in providing nutritious food to those facing food insecurity in the state, utilizing a network of community organizations to extend their reach.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HR181 is predominantly positive, reflecting a collective acknowledgment of the critical issues of hunger and food insecurity among some of the state's most vulnerable populations. Supporters appreciate the resolution's focus on enhancing food distribution networks and promoting public-private partnerships to alleviate these pressing issues. There is a sense of urgency in legislative discussions regarding the need for improved food access, particularly for children and the elderly.
Contention
While HR181 expresses a strong commitment to addressing hunger, possible points of contention may arise around the allocation of resources and the effectiveness of coordinated efforts among state entities and food banks. Some stakeholders might question how effectively the collaboration will be operationalized, especially in ensuring that the food reaches those who need it most. Additionally, the resolution may necessitate ongoing monitoring and evaluation to assess its impacts on food security in Louisiana.
Request the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services, the Division of Administration and the governor's office to work with the Louisiana Food Bank Association to ensure the acquisition and distribution of sufficient food to hungry Louisiana citizens, particularly children and the elderly.
Requests the Department of Health and Hospitals to promote the department's EarlySteps system with the Louisiana Hospital Association, the Louisiana State Medical Society, and the Optometry Association of Louisiana.
Expresses support of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana in its efforts to fight hunger and promote support for the value and need of nutritional feeding programs.
Transfers certain family and support programs from the Department of Children and Family Services to the Louisiana Workforce Commission and renames Louisiana Workforce Commission to Louisiana Works (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
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 the Louisiana Department of Health to take immediate action to share information, expertise, and resources in an effort to coordinate public, private, and charitable sectors to abate hunger in Louisiana.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Legislative Auditor to investigate the partnership between the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services and the Louisiana Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies
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.