Establishes Restaurant Meals Program in DHS; permits certain individuals to use SNAP benefits at approved restaurants; requires participation by certain restaurants operated by institutions of higher education.
Impact
The implementation of the Restaurant Meals Program will require county welfare agencies to collaborate with the Department of Human Services to determine which counties and restaurants will participate. The bill mandates that the department annually guide these welfare agencies by identifying counties eligible for the program and offering procedures for participants. This provision aims to streamline the process and ensure that eligible individuals can easily utilize their SNAP benefits at participating restaurants.
Summary
Senate Bill S2699 aims to establish a Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) in New Jersey under the Department of Human Services. This program will permit eligible homeless, disabled, or elderly individuals to access their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits at designated approved food vendors. These vendors are expected to provide meals at reduced or low prices, particularly benefiting those who may lack the ability to store and prepare food. The intention behind this initiative is to improve food security among some of the state's most vulnerable populations.
Contention
Although the bill addresses significant social issues, it could face pushback on its execution and funding. Opponents may raise concerns about the adequacy of the program in truly meeting the needs of eligible participants, as well as the potential administrative burden on local welfare agencies tasked with implementing the program. Moreover, there might be debates surrounding the selection criteria for approved food vendors and how this could affect local businesses in eligible counties.
Same As
Establishes Restaurant Meals Program in DHS; permits certain individuals to use SNAP benefits at approved restaurants; requires participation by certain restaurants operated by institutions of higher education.
Carry Over
Establishes Restaurant Meals Program in DHS; permits certain individuals to use SNAP benefits at approved restaurants; requires participation by certain restaurants operated by institutions of higher education.
Carry Over
Establishes Restaurant Meals Program in DHS; permits certain individuals to use SNAP benefits at approved restaurants; requires participation by certain restaurants operated by institutions of higher education.
Establishes Restaurant Meals Program in DHS; permits certain individuals to use SNAP benefits at approved restaurants; requires participation by certain restaurants operated by institutions of higher education.
Establishes Restaurant Meals Program in DHS; permits certain individuals to use SNAP benefits at approved restaurants; requires participation by certain restaurants operated by institutions of higher education.
Establishes Restaurant Meals Program in DHS; permits certain individuals to use SNAP benefits at approved restaurants; requires participation by certain restaurants operated by institutions of higher education.