This bill amends section 68-1017.02 of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, to require the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to establish a Restaurant Meals Program as part of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The program will allow households with elderly or disabled members, as well as homeless individuals, to redeem SNAP benefits at participating private establishments that offer meals at reduced prices. The Restaurant Meals Program is mandated to be operational by July 1, 2026. Additionally, the department is authorized to adopt rules and regulations to implement this program.

The bill also includes provisions related to eligibility for SNAP benefits concerning individuals with felony convictions. It opts out of a federal provision that eliminates SNAP eligibility for individuals convicted of certain felonies, while establishing specific criteria for ineligibility based on the number and nature of felony convictions. Individuals with one or two felony convictions for possession or use of controlled substances may still qualify for benefits if they are participating in or have completed a state-licensed or nationally accredited substance abuse treatment program. The original section 68-1017.02 is repealed as part of this legislative update.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 68-1017.02