Bill > HB4118

This bill makes several changes related to food access and waste in Oregon. It requires the Department of Human Services to replace Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits if they are stolen through "electronic theft," which is defined as unauthorized access to benefits via methods like card skimming or phishing. The bill also mandates that the Department of Human Services report to the state legislature on why some eligible families are not utilizing the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, and similarly, the Oregon Health Authority must report on underutilization of the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. Furthermore, the Hunger Task Force is directed to study food waste from grocery stores, farms, and schools, and to investigate "food deserts" – areas with limited access to affordable, nutritious food – and existing food assistance programs, with both studies due to be reported to the legislature by September 15, 2027, and these reporting requirements will expire on January 2, 2028. Finally, the bill declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage.

Health and Social Services

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2026R1/Measures/Overview/HB4118