Bill > HB5523

This bill, titled the "Bureau of Community Action and Economic Opportunity Act," establishes a new Bureau of Community Action and Economic Opportunity and a Commission on Community Action and Economic Opportunity within the state's human services department to combat poverty and promote self-sufficiency for low-income individuals. The Bureau, led by an Executive Director, will coordinate state efforts, cooperate with various agencies, administer programs like the weatherization assistance program, and advocate for policies that reduce poverty and improve economic and social opportunities for those with incomes at or below federal poverty guidelines. The Commission, composed of elected officials, private sector members, and low-income individuals, will serve as a forum to advise on poverty reduction policies, convene public meetings, and report on the Bureau's performance. The bill also outlines the process for designating Community Action Agencies, which are local entities responsible for developing and administering programs to address poverty within their service areas, and mandates that these agencies have a governing board with representation from public officials, low-income individuals, and community stakeholders.