General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1418 aims to improve food security in Connecticut by establishing the "Connecticut Food Security Fund," a nonlapsing account that will receive one percent of the state's tax revenue from prepared meals starting July 1, 2025. This fund will support food security initiatives, including a grant program for nonprofit organizations to create or expand food security hubs that enhance access to locally grown, nutritious food. The Commissioner of Agriculture will oversee this program, prioritizing organizations that serve food deserts. Additionally, the bill modifies existing school lunch programs, mandating that local and regional boards of education provide free meals to all students and prohibiting public shaming for unpaid meal charges, while allowing schools to accept donations for these programs.

The legislation also introduces several new initiatives, including a "food as medicine" program that seeks a Medicaid waiver for food-related health interventions and requires a report on its impact on chronic health conditions. It proposes increasing the minimum monthly supplemental nutrition assistance benefit and establishing a healthy food incentive program to encourage the purchase of fresh produce at certified farmers' markets. Furthermore, a supplemental nutrition commodities assistance program will support soup kitchens and food pantries, ensuring funds are allocated to purchase produce from Connecticut farmers. The bill also includes a Restaurant Meals Program for eligible beneficiaries to buy meals at participating restaurants, with various provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-215, 10-215b