Resolution HIP — File 24-1626

A Resolution to Keep Massachusetts HIP WHEREAS: In Massachusetts, the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) automatically applies to anyone who receives SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits and allows them to receive limited reimbursement when they purchase local fruits and vegetables; and WHEREAS: The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) announced on October 17th, 2024 to HIP vendors that starting on December 1st monthly reimbursements will be reduced to $20 per household, regardless of household size from a variable $40 to $80 based on household size; and WHEREAS: HIP serves as a critical tool in the fight against food and nutritional insecurity, which is pronounced among low-income Somerville residents, including seniors; and WHEREAS: Vendors throughout Somerville’s Farmers Markets rely on the sales that they receive with the support of programs like SNAP and HIP to sustain themselves; and WHEREAS: HIP participation is up 19 percent as compared to last year and the need for state and local governments to support their residents’ nutritional security is likely to increase if federal support dries up; and WHEREAS: The Somerville City Council recognizes it as its duty to advocate on behalf of our working-class constituents who rely on these critical state-funded programs; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Somerville City Council calls upon Governor Maura Healey, Senate President Karen Spilka, Speaker of the House Ron Mariano, Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues, and House Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz to support an additional $10 million for HIP in a supplemental budget, and requests that the City Clerk forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to each of their offices as well as Somerville’s state delegation.