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Increased Food Assistance and Simplified Access for Needy Families

This act aims to increase food assistance for low-income families by changing how benefits are calculated. It also simplifies program access for residents of Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, while eliminating certain time and financial restrictions for beneficiaries.
Key points
Increased Food Benefits: Benefits will be calculated using a low-cost food plan, potentially leading to higher support amounts for families.
Easier Medical Deductions for Elderly and Disabled: A standard medical expense deduction is introduced, simplifying the process of deducting medical costs.
Elimination of Shelter Expense Cap: The upper limit on deductions for excess shelter expenses is removed, which may help reduce taxable income for some beneficiaries.
Removal of Time Limits: Time limits for receiving benefits for certain groups are eliminated, providing more stable support.
Program Expansion to US Territories: Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands will be able to fully participate in the federal food assistance program, ensuring greater support.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_2192
Sponsor: Sen. Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [D-NY]
Process start date: 2021-06-23
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_2192.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-06-23.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Increased Food Benefits: Benefits will be calculated using a low-cost food plan, potentially leading to higher support amounts for families.
  • Easier Medical Deductions for Elderly and Disabled: A standard medical expense deduction is introduced, simplifying the process of deducting medical costs.
  • Elimination of Shelter Expense Cap: The upper limit on deductions for excess shelter expenses is removed, which may help reduce taxable income for some beneficiaries.
  • Removal of Time Limits: Time limits for receiving benefits for certain groups are eliminated, providing more stable support.
  • Program Expansion to US Territories: Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands will be able to fully participate in the federal food assistance program, ensuring greater support.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [D-NY].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Agriculture