House Concurrent Resolution No. by Representative Devillier and Senator Henry urges the Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health to take immediate action to address the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the federal government shutdown. The resolution highlights the critical importance of ensuring access to healthy food for Louisiana citizens, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, disabled individuals, and families with children who rely on SNAP benefits. With the federal government shutdown causing delays in benefit distribution, the resolution emphasizes the need for the state to utilize available revenue sources, including the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund, to continue providing these essential benefits.

The resolution calls for the Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health to utilize up to $150 million per month from appropriated funds for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 to address the suspension of SNAP benefits. It also grants the Secretary the authority to use available funds to ensure that SNAP benefits are paid during this emergency situation. The legislature recognizes the urgency of the matter and seeks to mitigate the negative impact of the federal shutdown on the health and safety of Louisiana residents by ensuring the continuity of food assistance programs.