The Healey-Driscoll Administration in Massachusetts is holding regional listening sessions to gather public input following federal reductions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). According to an announcement from the Massachusetts government website, feedback from these sessions will help guide the state’s Anti-Hunger Task Force.
Governor Maura Healey established the Task Force in response to federal legislation attributed to significant reductions or loss of SNAP benefits for more than 150,000 Massachusetts residents. The administration intends to collect information from affected individuals and a broad range of community stakeholders.
According to figures from the Governor’s office, more than one million residents rely on SNAP, including children, seniors, people with disabilities, local businesses, farms, and approximately 21,000 veterans. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll stated that the listening sessions will allow food pantries, nonprofits, schools, parents, caregivers, farmers, and retailers to share their perspectives.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah, MD, Co-Chair of the Anti-Hunger Task Force, noted the broader health impacts associated with food insecurity. Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler also highlighted the connection between access to food and individuals’ ability to meet educational and economic goals.
Information about session schedules is available on the state’s official website. Feedback gathered will support both immediate and long-term planning to address food assistance needs following changes to federal policy under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
