Congressional Bills,H.R. 9914 (IH) – Fresh Food Act

H.R. 9914 (IH) – Fresh Food Act

Summary:

The Fresh Food Act of 2022 aims to address food insecurity in the United States by increasing access to fresh and nutritious food in underserved communities. The bill proposes a comprehensive approach that includes:

Key Provisions:

  • Expansion of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program):
    • Increases the maximum monthly SNAP benefits by $30 per person.
    • Expands eligibility for SNAP to include individuals with certain mental health conditions.
    • Provides a permanent 15% increase in the maximum monthly SNAP benefit for households in high-cost areas.
  • Investment in Food Assistance Programs:
    • Allocates funding for the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) to provide additional food assistance to low-income individuals and families.
    • Expands the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) to provide vouchers for fresh produce to low-income seniors.
  • Support for Local Food Systems:
    • Creates a new “Food Access Innovation Fund” to provide grants to organizations working to increase access to fresh food in underserved communities.
    • Supports urban agriculture and community gardens to promote local food production.
  • Healthy Food Standards:
    • Establishes new nutrition standards for food provided through food assistance programs.
    • Requires that a minimum percentage of food purchased by the federal government be locally sourced or sustainably grown.
  • Data Collection and Research:
    • Mandates the collection of data on food insecurity and the effectiveness of food assistance programs.
    • Supports research on food systems and the impact of food access on health outcomes.

Potential Impact:

The Fresh Food Act has the potential to significantly reduce food insecurity in the United States by:

  • Providing more financial assistance for food purchases.
  • Expanding access to fresh produce and nutritious food.
  • Supporting local food systems and promoting sustainable agriculture.
  • Improving nutrition outcomes and reducing health disparities.

Current Status (as of May 2023):

  • The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 25, 2022.
  • It has been referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.
  • The bill is currently under consideration by the Subcommittee on Nutrition, Oversight, and Department Operations.

Additional Notes:

  • The bill is sponsored by Representative James P. McGovern (D-MA), Chairman of the House Hunger Caucus.
  • It is co-sponsored by a bipartisan group of 25 Representatives.
  • The bill has received support from various organizations, including anti-hunger advocates, public health experts, and food industry groups.

H.R. 9914 (IH) – Fresh Food Act

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