‘Emergency preamble. Whereas, acts and resolves of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and
Whereas, Maine has a moral obligation to care for its most vulnerable citizens; and
Whereas, Maine ranks first in New England in food insecurity; and
Whereas, in past years, Maine has underutilized up to $30,000,000 of federal funding that could have been used to provide meals to hungry students; and
Whereas, food insecurity has proven to have a negative impact on student health and learning; and
Whereas, the United States Department of Agriculture recently announced a nationwide expansion of its program known as the Community Eligibility Provision, which increases access to breakfast and lunch for all students in low-income areas; and
Whereas, the Task Force To End Student Hunger in Maine must be initiated before the 90-day period expires so that the study may be completed and a report submitted in time for submission to the next legislative session; and
Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it’
