Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3191

Caption

Relating to prohibiting or limiting certain charges during a public health disaster in connection with delivery services provided by retailers participating in the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

Impact

If enacted, HB3191 would significantly alter the way retailers interact with SNAP recipients by creating limitations on service fees during public emergencies. The bill defines a public health disaster area as any area officially declared as such by the governor or the president of the United States, thus establishing a clear framework for when these provisions would take effect. Additionally, it ensures that SNAP recipients who rely on delivery services are not penalized by additional financial burdens during such critical times, promoting equity in food access.

Summary

House Bill 3191 aims to protect recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from excessive charges related to delivery services during public health disasters. This bill specifically targets the fees that retailers may impose for home delivery of eligible food items. Under the bill, during a designated disaster period, retailers are prohibited from charging more than the local sales and use taxes on these purchases or requesting gratuities for delivery services provided under SNAP. This is intended to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to necessary food items without incurring additional costs during a public health crisis.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on protecting consumers, there may be concerns from retailers about the implications of these regulations on their business models. Some may argue that the limitations on delivery fees could impact their ability to provide these services sustainably. Moreover, the requirement to not solicit gratuities might also be contentious, as retailers may rely on such tips to supplement their delivery staff's earnings. Balancing the interests of SNAP recipients with the operational realities of retailers presents potential points of debate among stakeholders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3076

Relating to providing eligible supplemental nutrition assistance program recipients with an additional benefit to pay certain food delivery service fees.

TX SB346

Relating to prohibiting the purchase of certain food and drink items under the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

TX SB727

Relating to allowing certain inmates to apply for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits to be provided at the time of discharge or release.

TX HB1287

Relating to the exclusion of certain resources in determining eligibility for the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

TX HB4224

Relating to eligibility for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits.

TX SB75

Relating to eligibility for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits.

TX HB2756

Relating to the exclusion of certain resources in determining eligibility for financial assistance and supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits.

TX HB2836

Relating to eligibility for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits.

TX SB1685

Relating to eligibility for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits.

TX SB401

Relating to prices charged by a medical staffing services agency during certain designated public health disaster periods; providing a civil penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.