WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 291

An Act establishing a special commission on two-generation approaches to childhood education

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Ultrino

Bill H 291 establishes a commission in Massachusetts to tackle multi-generational poverty by improving support for both children and parents through integrated education and resources.

Hearing scheduled for 11/18/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 291

Summary of Bill H 291: An Act Establishing a Special Commission on Two-Generation Approaches to Childhood Education

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 291 aims to establish a Special Commission on Two-Generation Approaches in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The primary goal of this commission is to investigate and recommend strategies that address chronic, multi-generational family poverty by focusing on the needs of both children and their parents simultaneously. This approach seeks to improve outcomes for families through integrated educational and economic support.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several important provisions regarding the formation and responsibilities of the commission:

  1. Definition of Two-Generation Approach:

    • A strategy aimed at reducing family poverty by improving outcomes for both children and their parents.

  2. Composition of the Commission:

    • Co-chairs from the joint committees on children, families, and education.
    • Various state commissioners or their designees.
    • Six additional members appointed by the co-chairs, including representatives from community organizations and educational institutions.

  3. Commission Responsibilities:

    • Solicit input from families, service providers, and educational institutions.
    • Identify best practices from other states and develop a model for two-generation approaches.
    • Create a school and employment readiness plan to support low-income families.
    • Recommend ways to maximize existing state resources for two-generation initiatives.
    • Establish metrics to evaluate progress and outcomes for both children and parents.

  4. Timeline:

    • The commission must begin its work within 60 days of the bill's effective date.
    • A report detailing findings and recommendations must be submitted to the General Court and the Governor within one year of the commission's formation.

Impact

The establishment of this commission is expected to:
- Benefit Vulnerable Families: By focusing on both children and parents, the commission aims to create comprehensive support systems that address intergenerational poverty.
- Enhance Educational Outcomes: The proposed two-generation strategies are designed to improve school readiness and workforce preparedness for low-income families.
- Inform Policy Decisions: The commission's findings will guide future legislative and administrative actions to implement effective two-generation approaches across the state.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing Scheduled: November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Room A-2
  • Referred to Committee: Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities

This bill represents a proactive step towards addressing the complex challenges of poverty in Massachusetts by fostering collaboration between educational and social services for families in need.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.