Substitute House Bill No. 7021 aims to enhance funding for nutrition assistance by appropriating $10 million to the Department of Social Services (DSS) from the General Fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. This funding will support the Supplemental Nutrition Commodities Assistance Program, which provides financial resources to Connecticut Foodshare (formerly known as the Connecticut Food Bank) for purchasing nutritious foods in bulk. The bill mandates that at least 15% of the funds be allocated for purchasing produce or other products from state farmers, and it requires that the program's funding increase by a minimum of 3% annually starting in fiscal year 2027.

Additionally, the bill modifies the handling fee structure for soup kitchens, food pantries, and emergency shelters, allowing Connecticut Foodshare to charge a fee of up to five cents per pound of food distributed, rather than mandating it. The bill also includes technical changes, such as updating the name of the food distribution organization and clarifying language regarding the allocation of funds. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
HS Joint Favorable:
File No. 119: