Bill > HB2481

This bill, concerning the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), aims to restrict eligibility and guide food purchases. Primarily, it prohibits individuals who are not U.S. citizens or nationals from receiving SNAP benefits unless they meet specific federal definitions of eligible and qualified aliens. The bill also mandates that applicants for state or local public benefits, including SNAP, must provide affirmative proof of U.S. citizenship, U.S. national status, or an eligible alien immigration status, requiring documentary evidence recognized by the Department of Revenue or federal documents confirming lawful presence and eligibility. While allowing for temporary benefits with an affidavit under oath if documentation is initially unavailable, it sets strict timelines for submitting acceptable proof, with failure leading to denial or termination of benefits, and prohibits further temporary extensions for those previously denied due to insufficient verification. Furthermore, the bill requires agencies administering public benefits to verify an applicant's lawful presence through federal systems like the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program, and if verification is impossible, benefits will be suspended pending federal investigation. A significant new provision directs the Department of Social Services to seek a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to operate SNAP in a way that prioritizes healthy and minimally processed foods, discourages items high in added sugar and ultra-processed ingredients, and supports Missouri agriculture, with specific emphasis on encouraging the purchase of whole foods like fruits, vegetables, proteins, dairy, and whole grains, and exploring strategies to further incentivize the purchase of fresh produce and Missouri-produced meat and dairy.

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https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2481&year=2026&code=R