Bill > HR5168

This bill proposes to transition Puerto Rico from its current nutrition assistance block grant program to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance benefits to low-income households. The bill gives Puerto Rico 180 days to submit a plan of operation to the Secretary of Agriculture, who will provide technical assistance and review the plan to ensure it meets SNAP requirements. If approved, the Secretary must certify Puerto Rico's eligibility to participate in SNAP as a state. The bill allows Puerto Rico to continue using its existing consolidated block grant for up to five years during this transition period, with the Secretary required to submit annual reports to Congress about the transition process. The legislation also makes technical amendments to existing food assistance laws to include Puerto Rico in various definitions and eligibility provisions. Additionally, the bill provides for continued funding for American Samoa's nutrition assistance program and authorizes necessary appropriations to support the transition. While the bill is enacted immediately, the substantive amendments will take effect 10 years after enactment, providing a lengthy transition period for Puerto Rico to adapt to the SNAP program.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5168/all-info