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HB 610

Commonwealth Food Security and Coordination Act; established, report.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony

HB 610 establishes Virginia's Food Security and Coordination Act requiring state agencies to coordinate food assistance programs and report on food insecurity across the commonwealth.

Subcommittee recommends reporting and referring to Appropriations (7-Y 1-N)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 610

Legislative bill overview

HB 610 establishes a Commonwealth Food Security and Coordination Act in Virginia, creating a framework for coordinating food security efforts across state agencies. The bill requires reporting mechanisms to assess food insecurity issues and develop statewide coordination strategies. It appears designed to consolidate fragmented food assistance programs under unified state oversight.

Why is this important

Food insecurity affects vulnerable populations including low-income families, seniors, and rural communities. Coordinating existing programs can reduce duplication, improve access to benefits, and identify service gaps more efficiently. The reporting requirement creates accountability and data-driven policymaking around hunger and nutrition assistance.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and funding: The Department of Planning and Budget issued a fiscal impact statement, suggesting implementation costs may require new appropriations or reallocation of existing resources
  • Agency turf concerns: Consolidating food security coordination across multiple agencies may create bureaucratic resistance or unclear lines of responsibility
  • Scope of coordination: Unclear whether the act applies only to state programs or includes partnerships with nonprofits, local governments, and federal SNAP/WIC administration, which affects implementation complexity

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

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