Massachusetts Senate Bill S128

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Resolve establishing a commission to study childhood hunger in Norfolk County as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic

Impact

The commission will be comprised of several key stakeholders, including representatives from public health, education, and local food organizations, which underscores the collaborative effort needed to tackle childhood hunger. The bill mandates that the commission collects and evaluates data regarding the prevalence of childhood hunger pre-and post-pandemic, examines food accessibility, and explores the nutritional quality of food distributed through various programs in the county. Recommendations derived from this study are expected to inform future legislation aimed at alleviating hunger through enhanced access to food resources.

Summary

Senate Bill S128 seeks to establish a commission tasked with studying the escalation of childhood hunger in Norfolk County, particularly as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Introduced by Senators Walter F. Timilty and Michael O. Moore, the bill recognizes a growing concern regarding food insecurity among children, fueled significantly by the recent health crisis. The focus of the commission will be on uncovering the causes of increased hunger and identifying actionable solutions to address this pressing issue in the community.

Contention

While the bill itself has not been met with significant opposition in the available discussions, the topic of childhood hunger often stirs varying opinions on how to address food insecurity. Some advocates may argue for focusing on systemic solutions that encompass wider socio-economic factors contributing to hunger, while others might prioritize immediate food distribution measures. The outcome of the commission's findings may prompt broader debates around resource allocation and the effectiveness of existing food assistance programs in Massachusetts.