Bill > LD1711

This bill seeks to expand the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which are federal food assistance benefits commonly known as food stamps, to allow recipients to purchase ready-to-cook meals. The bill requires the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to request a waiver from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) by January 1, 2026, to permit this expansion. If the waiver is granted, the department must amend its rules within 60 days to allow SNAP benefits to be used for ready-to-cook meals, which are prepared food items that can be quickly cooked at home. The department is also mandated to notify retailers and other meal providers participating in the SNAP program about this rule change. This proposed change could be particularly beneficial for SNAP recipients who may have limited cooking facilities, time, or ability to prepare meals from scratch, such as elderly or disabled individuals, providing them with more flexible food purchasing options.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1711&snum=132