Proposed Bill No. 6089 aims to enhance food security in Connecticut by implementing several key measures. The bill proposes to provide universal free school meals, mitigate benefits cliffs in state-administered assistance programs, and increase the minimum benefit under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Additionally, it mandates the Commissioner of Social Services to seek federal approval for a Medicaid waiver that would allow food to be treated as medicine for Medicaid funding purposes. Other initiatives include establishing regional food access hubs, expanding food business incubators, enhancing support for local food purchasing, and creating a dedicated special fund for food and nutrition in the state budget to ensure long-term sustainability of food access initiatives.

The bill emphasizes the importance of reducing barriers to food security and supporting local economies, with the overarching goal of improving access to nutritious food for all residents. The proposed changes reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing food insecurity by not only providing immediate assistance but also fostering long-term solutions through dedicated funding and infrastructure development.