The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 7021 aims to enhance funding for nutrition assistance by establishing a supplemental nutrition commodities assistance program under the Department of Social Services. The bill replaces the existing Section 17b-791, allowing for the purchase of produce, high protein foods, and other nutritionally beneficial supplemental foods for soup kitchens, food pantries, and emergency shelters. The Connecticut Food Bank is replaced with Connecticut Foodshare as the entity responsible for purchasing these foods in bulk from in-state wholesalers or brokers. Additionally, the bill mandates that at least 15% of the program's funds be allocated each fiscal year for purchasing produce or other products from Connecticut farmers, with a commitment to increase funding by at least 3% annually starting July 1, 2026.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the handling fee structure, allowing soup kitchens, food pantries, and emergency shelters to be charged a handling fee of up to five cents per pound to cover costs incurred by Connecticut Foodshare, rather than mandating payment. The bill appropriates $10 million from the General Fund to the Department of Social Services for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, to support this program. The overall goal of the legislation is to increase access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations while supporting local agriculture.

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