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Bill

AB 1476

Meal program: senior citizens.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Patrick Ahrens and 1 co-sponsor

AB 1476 - Meal program: senior citizens OverviewBill Number: AB 1476 Title: Meal program: senior citizens. Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 302, Statutes of 2025

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 302, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 1476

AB 1476 - Meal program: senior citizens

Overview

Bill Number: AB 1476
Title: Meal program: senior citizens.
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 302, Statutes of 2025.
Introduced: February 21, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of AB 1476 is to expand and enhance meal programs for senior citizens in California. The bill aims to address food insecurity and improve nutrition among the state's aging population by increasing access to affordable, nutritious meals.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes the Senior Citizen Meal Assistance Program to provide funding for local governments and nonprofit organizations to operate meal programs for seniors.
  • Requires the California Department of Aging to administer the program and develop guidelines for eligibility, meal standards, and reimbursement rates.
  • Authorizes $50 million in annual state funding to be allocated to local entities based on the senior population and need in each community.
  • Mandates that meals provided through the program meet certain nutritional requirements and accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences.
  • Directs the Department of Aging to conduct outreach and provide technical assistance to increase participation in the meal programs.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Senior citizens aged 60 and older will be the primary beneficiaries, gaining access to affordable, nutritious meals through local programs.
  • Local governments and nonprofit organizations that operate meal programs for seniors will receive increased funding and support to expand their services.
  • The California Department of Aging will be responsible for administering the new Senior Citizen Meal Assistance Program.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

AB 1476 was introduced on February 21, 2025, and was subsequently passed by the California State Legislature and signed into law by the Governor. The bill went into effect on January 1, 2026, with the Department of Aging required to establish the new meal program and begin allocating funds to local entities within 6 months.

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

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