AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4 and Title 71, relative to the department of human services.
Impact
Under this bill, the DHS is mandated to actively pursue federal funding opportunities within ninety days of the bill's enactment. Additionally, the department is required to provide annual reports to the chairs of the health and welfare committees of both the Senate and House of Representatives, detailing the funds applied for regarding childhood hunger. This reporting obligation aims to maintain transparency and accountability regarding the department's efforts and the effectiveness of the strategies implemented to combat childhood hunger.
Summary
Senate Bill 1505, introduced by Senator Yarbro, seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 4 and Title 71, to enhance efforts in alleviating childhood hunger within the state. The primary objective of the bill is to prompt the Department of Human Services (DHS) to actively seek and apply for federal grants and other available federal funds aimed at addressing this critical issue. The bill reflects a significant commitment to utilizing federal resources to combat childhood hunger, which is increasingly recognized as a public welfare concern.
Contention
While the bill primarily focuses on securing federal funding to alleviate childhood hunger, debates may arise surrounding the adequacy of these efforts. Possible points of contention could include the effectiveness of federal funding in addressing local needs versus state-funded initiatives, as well as concerns about the bureaucratic process involved in grant applications. Stakeholders may also discuss the potential social implications of solely relying on federal funds to address a state issue, evaluating the balance of state versus federal responsibilities in social welfare.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 71, Chapter 3, relative to the standards committee, department of human services.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 71, Chapter 3, relative to the standards committee, department of human services.