SB 2018-186: Hot Food with SNAP is OK Sometimes Act (Passed)

[Mr. Reactionary]

So under the Food Stamps program, recipients get vouchers to purchase certain types of food. The line drawing with what is and isn't allowed is weird at times. At Wal-Mart, rotisserie chickens under the heat lamp are not eligible for purchase with food stamps. The same chicken in the same packaging IS eligible for purchase once its been refrigerated. Seems dumb to me. The difference is that hot food is considered a "prepared food" which is not eligible for purchase with food stamps.

Meals on Wheels (and related groups) deliver prepared meals at a low cost to elderly/disabled shut ins. Since the food is hot, they can't accept food stamps, even though a lot of the people they deliver to qualify, but can't leave the house. By adopting my proposed changes, Meals on Wheels and other similar charitable groups can accept food stamps. This offers more secure funding for charities and more convenience for recipients, all without costing us a dime. This wouldnt spend any more money, this would just allow food stamp funds which are already going out anyway also be used to buy meals on wheels if you qualify for their program.

If chewing gum and soda are eligible for food stamps, why not meals on wheels?

[Mr. Reactionary]

I motion for a final vote on this bill.

[Mr. Reactionary]

aye

[Mr. Reactionary]

I realize this vote is almost over, but I would like to mention a quick note and will certainly bring it up when it comes up in the house.

My mom, having had a lot of experience being on Food Stamps, was always keen to comment that prepared food is not covered, and there is no program that ensures year round access to electricity. So if you are dirt poor and don't have power, or if homeless and lack access to a stove. how are you suppose to cook the food that SNAP covers?

Now the one downside of prepared food is that it is much more expensive and means that a given amount of food stamps will pay for a good number fewer days worth of food.

Both good points. Consider this the pilot program, since prepared food is limited to groups with lower prices.