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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