The bill H.151 proposes the implementation of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program's (SNAP) Restaurant Meals Program in Vermont. It mandates that the state shall participate in SNAP to alleviate hunger and malnutrition among low-income households. The bill introduces a new section, 33 V.S.A. 1704, which outlines the establishment of the Restaurant Meals Program, to be administered by the Agency of Human Services in consultation with the Agency of Commerce and Community Development. The program will allow for voluntary participation by restaurants, which must meet specific eligibility criteria aimed at promoting local foods, cultural diversity in food offerings, and geographic accessibility for eligible program participants.

Additionally, the bill authorizes the creation of a new permanent position, the Restaurant Meals Program Coordinator, within the Agency of Human Services, along with appropriations of $100,000 for the position and $75,000 for restaurant start-up costs related to the program in fiscal year 2026. The Agency will also collaborate with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service to adopt the program, ensuring a comprehensive implementation plan is in place. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 33-1701