Bill > S62

This bill establishes a legal framework for community fridges to address food insecurity in Massachusetts by defining community fridges as publicly accessible refrigerators where people can freely donate or take food. The bill requires each community fridge to have a designated manager (who could be a volunteer, nonprofit, or government official) responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitary conditions according to department of public health guidelines. The placement of these fridges will be strategically prioritized in areas with high food insecurity, including food deserts and low-income regions, with an emphasis on equitable geographic distribution across the Commonwealth. Additionally, the bill provides legal protection for food establishments that donate food without charge, shielding them from civil liability as long as the food is not misbranded, adulterated, or improperly handled, and the injury is not result of gross negligence or intentional misconduct. This legislation aims to create a structured approach to community-based food sharing that can help address hunger and food access issues.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S62