Bill
LB 46
Overview: LB 46, Establish a Restaurant Meals Program under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, was introduced on January 09, 2025 and is currently scheduled for a notic
Overview: LB 46, Establish a Restaurant Meals Program under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, was introduced on January 09, 2025 and is currently scheduled for a notice of hearing on February 06, 2025.
Purpose and Intent: The main goal of this bill is to create a Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) within Nebraska's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The intent is to provide SNAP recipients who are elderly, disabled, or homeless with the option to use their benefits to purchase prepared meals from participating restaurants, in addition to the traditional grocery purchases.
Key Provisions:
- Establishes the RMP as a voluntary program for SNAP recipients who meet specific eligibility criteria.
- Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to certify and monitor participating restaurants to ensure compliance with program rules.
- Authorizes SNAP recipients to use their benefits to purchase prepared, ready-to-eat meals from approved restaurants.
- Mandates the state to provide outreach and education to raise awareness of the RMP among eligible SNAP recipients.
Affected Parties and Impacts: This bill would primarily benefit SNAP recipients who are elderly, disabled, or homeless, as it would provide them with greater flexibility and access to prepared meals. It also aims to support local restaurants by allowing them to accept SNAP benefits for meal purchases.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: LB 46 is currently in the notice of hearing stage and will next be considered by the Health and Human Services Committee on February 06, 2025. If passed by the committee, it would then proceed to a full vote by the Nebraska Legislature.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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