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Bill

H 118

Resolve providing for an investigation by a special commission relative to the strengths and sustainability of the Commonwealth’s emergency food network

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 8 co-sponsors

Establishes commission to investigate Massachusetts emergency food network strengths and sustainability to address food insecurity system challenges.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4419
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Bill Summary · H 118

Legislative bill overview

H 118 establishes a special commission to investigate Massachusetts' emergency food network—the system of food banks, pantries, and charitable distribution programs that serve food-insecure residents. The commission would assess the network's current strengths, identify sustainability challenges, and presumably provide recommendations for improvement.

Why is this important

Food insecurity affects thousands of Massachusetts residents, and the emergency food network is a critical safety net, especially during economic downturns or crises. Understanding the network's capacity, gaps, and long-term viability is essential for policymakers to ensure vulnerable populations have reliable access to food assistance.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and cost of investigation: Special commissions require funding and staff time; questions may arise about whether existing data could answer these questions more efficiently
  • Recommendation authority: Unclear whether the commission's findings will be binding or merely advisory, and what enforcement mechanisms would follow recommendations
  • Funding responsibility: Any sustainability improvements identified might require significant state or local funding, creating budget pressures for competing priorities

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

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