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EATS Act of 2023
12/6/2023, 5:16 AM
Summary of Bill S 1488
One of the key provisions of the EATS Act is the establishment of a grant program to support community-based organizations and non-profit groups that are working to improve access to healthy food in underserved communities. These grants would be used to fund initiatives such as community gardens, farmers markets, and food distribution programs.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to incentivize grocery stores and other food retailers to open or expand in food deserts, which are areas where residents have limited access to fresh, healthy food. This could include tax incentives or other financial incentives to encourage businesses to invest in these underserved communities. The EATS Act also aims to improve nutrition education and food literacy among Americans, particularly in low-income communities. This could involve funding for nutrition education programs in schools, community centers, and other public spaces. Overall, the EATS Act of 2023 seeks to address the root causes of food insecurity and promote access to healthy, affordable food for all Americans. It is currently being debated in Congress, and its fate will ultimately be decided by lawmakers in the coming months.
Congressional Summary of S 1488
Enhance Access To SNAP Act of 2023 or the EATS Act of 2023
This bill expands eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for certain students.
Specifically, the bill removes the restriction on SNAP eligibility for students to allow otherwise eligible students who are attending institutions of higher education (IHEs) at least half time to participate in SNAP. Under current law, students 18-49 years old are restricted, with exceptions, from participating in SNAP. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 temporarily exempted some students from certain SNAP eligibility requirements; these temporary student exemptions are currently scheduled to expire after the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency on May 11, 2023.
Further, the bill provides that students enrolled at least half time in a recognized school, training program, or IHE constitute individual households (not residents of institutions) and may be eligible for SNAP benefits. (Participation in SNAP is limited to households.)
