The bill sSB218 File No. 30 proposes the creation of two task forces with distinct objectives. The first task force is to develop recommendations for a state-wide program that provides bereavement and grief counseling services to children and families at no cost. This task force will consider various program aspects, including administration, scope of services, integration with existing programs, service delivery in underserved areas, and long-term funding. It will be composed of members from relevant sectors and must submit a report by July 1, 2025, after which it will terminate. The second task force will study social isolation and loneliness among state residents, identify at-risk populations, and recommend a state-wide program to address these issues. This task force will also consist of appointed members from various sectors and is required to submit its report by January 1, 2025. Both task forces will become effective upon passage of the act and will create new sections in the law.

The fiscal impact statement for the bill indicates no anticipated fiscal impact to the state or municipalities from the establishment of the first task force, with administrative support provided by the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity, and Opportunity. The bill also includes an act concerning the study of bereavement, grief counseling, social isolation, and loneliness, but the Office of Legislative Research does not analyze Special Acts. The Committee on Children has given a Joint Favorable Substitute to the bill, with a vote of 16 in favor and 3 against on March 5, 2024. The summary does not mention any insertions or deletions from current law.