Bill > HB202

This bill establishes a Social Isolation and Loneliness Pilot Grant Program within the Department of Health to address the negative health impacts of social isolation and loneliness, particularly among vulnerable populations. The program will award grants to up to five "eligible entities," which are organizations serving individuals at risk of social isolation and loneliness, to help cover operating costs like venue fees and personnel for programs offering socioemotional support. Priority will be given to programs serving youth, seniors, and rural communities, with individual grants capped at $20,000. The bill specifies that grant funds cannot be used for research or capital expenditures. For fiscal year 2028, $100,000 is to be appropriated for the program, and by December 1, 2029, the Department must evaluate the program's progress and impact, reporting its findings to the Governor and the General Assembly. This pilot program is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and will remain in effect for three years and six months, expiring on March 31, 2030.