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HB 434

Relating to creating a reimbursement program to reimburse certain supplemental nutrition assistance program recipients for the cost of certain food delivery service fees.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Ray Lopez

Texas would reimburse SNAP recipients for food delivery service fees, increasing purchasing power for low-income households using online grocery platforms.

Referred to Human Services
#aging(i0015) #disabilities #personswith(i0380) #food(s0761) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #humanservices--foodprograms(i0910)
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Bill Summary · HB 434

Legislative bill overview

HB 434 would establish a state reimbursement program in Texas to compensate SNAP (food stamp) recipients for the fees they incur when using food delivery services. The bill creates a mechanism to offset the additional costs that low-income individuals face when accessing groceries through delivery platforms rather than in-person shopping.

Why is this important

Food delivery service fees (typically 15-30% markups plus delivery charges) create a significant financial barrier for SNAP recipients with limited mobility, transportation, or time constraints. This program would effectively increase purchasing power for vulnerable populations by reimbursing a cost that currently reduces their ability to buy food. It addresses a practical gap where modern shopping methods are becoming more common but less accessible to those on fixed incomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: No specified funding mechanism in the bill summary; unclear whether this represents new state spending and how it would be financed without details on reimbursement amounts or eligible recipients
  • Program scope ambiguity: The bill language "certain" delivery services and "certain" food items suggests undefined eligibility criteria that could limit access or create administrative complexity in determining which fees qualify
  • Market distortion concerns: Critics may argue that subsidizing delivery fees could artificially inflate prices on those platforms or reduce incentives for retailers to offer affordable in-store shopping options to low-income communities

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

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