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SB 201

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES - DIVISION OF AGING, ADULT, AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES - GRANTS FOR CONGREGATE AND HOME-DELIVERED MEALS APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2024-2025 FISCAL YEAR.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John Payton

Arkansas bill proposing state funding for elderly and homebound meal programs died in committee without advancing during the 2024-2025 budget cycle.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · SB 201

Legislative bill overview

SB 201 proposed to appropriate state funds to the Department of Human Services' Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services specifically for grants supporting congregate meals (communal dining programs) and home-delivered meals (meal delivery to homebound individuals) during the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The bill did not advance beyond committee review before the legislative session ended.

Why is this important

Congregate and home-delivered meal programs serve as critical nutrition and social support infrastructure for elderly and vulnerable populations. These programs prevent malnutrition, reduce social isolation, and often cost less than institutional care. Funding decisions directly affect whether low-income seniors and homebound individuals can access adequate nutrition.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal prioritization: Legislators may have disagreed on whether meal program funding should compete with other health services or receive dedicated appropriations during budget constraints
  • Program effectiveness metrics: Questions may exist about how effectively grant funds are distributed, whether they reach intended beneficiaries, and measurable outcomes
  • Local vs. state responsibility: Debate over whether funding should come from state appropriations or be structured as local/federal partnerships with different cost-sharing arrangements

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

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