Bill > H4400

This bill establishes the South Carolina Food Security Emergency Reserve Fund, which will be administered by the Department of Social Services (DSS). The fund will receive an annual appropriation of at least $25 million from the state general fund to ensure nutrition assistance continues if federal food programs experience significant cuts. If federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding to South Carolina is reduced by 10% or more in a fiscal year, DSS will immediately activate emergency food security protocols, including expanding eligibility for state-funded food assistance and quickly disbursing up to $10 million from the reserve fund. The bill also requires DSS to broaden the SNAP Produce Bonus Program's eligibility to include community grocers, mobile markets, and nonprofit food retail programs that offer fresh produce and meet specific food safety and pricing standards. Additionally, the department must include food access program recommendations in its annual budget request and collaborate with philanthropic and private sector partners to explore long-term funding and innovation opportunities for food security. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4400&session=126&summary=B