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AB 936

CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable Supplemental Benefits Program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Lee

AB 936 creates a CalFresh supplemental benefits program providing additional funds specifically for fresh fruit and vegetable purchases among low-income Californians.

In committee: Held under submission.
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Bill Summary · AB 936

Legislative bill overview

AB 936 establishes a supplemental benefits program within CalFresh (California's SNAP equivalent) that provides additional funds specifically for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables. The bill aims to increase nutritional access for low-income Californians by directing resources toward produce purchases.

Why is this important

Food insecurity and diet-related health disparities are significant public health challenges in California, particularly affecting low-income communities. By incentivizing fresh produce consumption through targeted subsidies, the bill addresses both nutrition and chronic disease prevention while potentially supporting local agricultural markets.

Potential points of contention

  • Program cost and funding source: Establishing a new supplemental benefit requires identifying dedicated funding; unclear whether this expands the overall CalFresh budget or reallocates existing resources, affecting other food assistance components
  • Implementation complexity: CalFresh administration already handles complex eligibility and benefit calculations; adding produce-specific incentives may require system modifications and increased administrative overhead
  • Effectiveness questions: Debates exist over whether direct subsidies effectively change purchasing behavior or if other barriers (food deserts, transportation, time constraints) limit program impact for intended beneficiaries
  • Equity concerns: Program design details (benefit levels, eligibility, participating retailers) will determine whether benefits reach the most vulnerable populations or create disparities in access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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