Bill > HR2236

This bill establishes a demonstration project that allows Tribal entities (including Indian reservations, Indian Tribes, and Tribal organizations) to purchase agricultural commodities under the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), which provides food assistance to low-income seniors. The project will enable eligible Tribal entities to enter into self-determination contracts to buy domestically produced agricultural commodities, with specific requirements that these purchases: do not materially increase the total food package, maintain or improve nutritional value, and may include foods of cultural significance to the Tribe. The Secretary of Agriculture will select Tribal entities for participation based on their successful food distribution program administration and capacity to purchase commodities. The bill authorizes $5,000,000 for the demonstration project and an additional $1,200,000 annually from 2026-2029 to support administrative staffing within the Department of Agriculture. The Secretary must consult with Tribal entities throughout the process and submit annual reports to Congressional agriculture committees detailing the project's activities. The goal is to provide more flexible and culturally responsive food assistance to Native American senior populations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2236/all-info