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SNAP Benefits Expansion: Allowing Purchase of Hot, Ready-to-Eat Meals.

This bill expands how federal food assistance benefits (SNAP) can be used. Citizens participating in the program will be able to purchase prepared, hot meals in stores for immediate consumption for the first time. This change aims to improve food access for individuals who lack the means to prepare meals at home, increasing their food security.
Key points
SNAP benefits can now be used to buy hot foods ready for immediate consumption (e.g., prepared meals from grocery stores or delis).
The existing ban on using benefits for alcohol and tobacco remains in place.
Participating stores must still meet requirements ensuring that hot food sales do not exceed 50% of their total gross sales.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_2258
Sponsor: Sen. Bennet, Michael F. [D-CO]
Process start date: 2023-07-12
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Hot Foods Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_2258.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-07-12.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • SNAP benefits can now be used to buy hot foods ready for immediate consumption (e.g., prepared meals from grocery stores or delis).
  • The existing ban on using benefits for alcohol and tobacco remains in place.
  • Participating stores must still meet requirements ensuring that hot food sales do not exceed 50% of their total gross sales.
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. Bennet, Michael F. [D-CO].

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 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Agriculture