Bill > H4039

This bill establishes a new program to provide universal breakfast and lunch at senior centers, centers for active living, and councils on aging across Massachusetts. The legislation creates a dedicated "Senior Breakfast and Lunch Fund" to support this initiative, which will be administered by the new Department of Aging and Independence. To participate in the program, these community-based organizations must have a kitchen facility. The fund will be financed through multiple sources, including state appropriations, private sector contributions, federal grants, and a minimum of 1% of annual sales tax revenue from clothing and footwear sales over $175. The bill defines these community organizations as places that provide services for elder adults and people with disabilities. The secretary of the department will be responsible for managing the fund, which can be used to create breakfast and lunch programs, improve kitchen facilities, partner with existing meal programs, and provide resources to support universal meal services. The department is required to submit an annual report by December 31st detailing the fund's activities to various legislative committees and government officials, ensuring transparency and accountability for the new program.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4039