Bill > HF970

This bill focuses on two main initiatives related to food assistance in Iowa: first, it appropriates $1,000,000 from the state's general fund to support the Double Up Food Bucks program for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025. This program, administered by the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative, aims to help SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients access fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers markets and grocery stores. Grant recipients must provide a matching dollar amount, and the funds will not revert at the end of the fiscal year. Second, the bill directs the Department of Health and Human Services to request federal approval to modify SNAP-eligible foods to include only "healthy foods and beverages" based on nutritional needs, such as healthy grains, dairy, meat, eggs, peanut butter, nuts, pasta, rice, legumes, and fruits and vegetables. If federal approval is obtained, any future changes to these healthy food standards would require legislative action. The appropriation for the Double Up Food Bucks program will only take effect upon receiving federal approval for the food eligibility modifications, creating a contingent implementation mechanism.

Budget and Finance

Appropriations (House)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF970