Bill
HR 5168
Overview: HR 5168, the Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act, was introduced in the House on September 08, 2025.Purpose and Intent: The bill aims to address the disparity i
Overview: HR 5168, the Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act, was introduced in the House on September 08, 2025.
Purpose and Intent: The bill aims to address the disparity in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits between Puerto Rico and the mainland United States. Currently, Puerto Rico receives a block grant for nutrition assistance, which results in lower per-person benefits compared to SNAP in the states.
Key Provisions:
- Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to transition Puerto Rico from the block grant program to the regular SNAP program.
- Ensures that SNAP eligibility and benefit levels in Puerto Rico are the same as in the states.
- Provides a multi-year phase-in period to allow for a smooth transition.
- Authorizes additional funding to cover the increased costs of implementing SNAP in Puerto Rico.
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Approximately 1.4 million Puerto Ricans who currently receive nutrition assistance through the block grant program would see an increase in their SNAP benefits.
- The transition is expected to provide greater food security and improved nutritional outcomes for low-income Puerto Rican households.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
The bill has been introduced in the House and is currently awaiting further legislative action. If enacted, the transition to the SNAP program in Puerto Rico would be phased in over several years to allow for a gradual implementation.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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