Bill > SB1499

This bill, known as the "Food is Medicine Act," directs the Department of Social Services to seek approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for a Section 1115 demonstration waiver. This waiver would allow Missouri to implement a "Food is Medicine" program within the MO HealthNet program, which is the state's Medicaid program. The goal of this program is to improve health outcomes for MO HealthNet participants who have chronic diseases related to nutrition by providing nutrition services, with the aim of reducing their need for medical care. These nutrition services could include case management, nutrition counseling, providing meals or stocking pantries, issuing nutrition prescriptions, and offering grocery provisions. The bill also emphasizes that whenever possible, the MO HealthNet division should prioritize working with community-based organizations and local farmers to ensure that nutrition prescriptions include locally grown food.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=74584