Bill > S1622

This bill amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to expand the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) for Children program to include benefit transfers during school closures. Specifically, the bill allows families to receive food benefits not just during summer months, but also during periods when schools are closed for 5 or more consecutive weekdays, such as during pandemic-related remote or hybrid learning situations. The bill provides a graduated federal funding mechanism for state administrative expenses, starting at 100% federal coverage in fiscal year 2026 and gradually reducing to 50% by fiscal year 2031. The bill also authorizes $50 million in implementation grants to help states develop or upgrade data systems needed to administer these expanded benefits. The program will provide benefits equivalent to the value of breakfast, lunch, and a snack at the free rate for each day of school closure, targeting low-income children who typically rely on school meal programs. By expanding the program beyond summer months, the bill aims to ensure that children from food-insecure households have access to nutritional support during unexpected school disruptions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1622/all-info