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Increased Food Assistance: New SNAP Benefit Calculation Rules

This act aims to increase food assistance for needy families by changing how Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are calculated. Benefits will now be based on a low-cost food plan instead of the previous thrifty food plan, potentially leading to higher aid amounts. Additionally, changes to medical deductions and the elimination of the shelter expense cap could improve beneficiaries' financial situations.
Key points
Increased SNAP Benefits: Food assistance amounts will be calculated using a low-cost food plan, potentially resulting in higher payments for eligible families.
New Medical Deduction Rules: Introduction of a standard medical deduction of $140 (starting 2025) or actual cost deduction, making it easier for elderly and disabled individuals to cover health expenses.
Elimination of Shelter Expense Cap: Removal of the upper limit on shelter expense deductions, which may provide financial relief to families with high housing costs.
Removal of Time Limit for Benefits: Elimination of time limits for receiving benefits, ensuring more stable support for those in need.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_2792
Sponsor: Sen. Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [D-NY]
Process start date: 2025-09-11
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
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 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_S_2792.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-09-11.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Increased SNAP Benefits: Food assistance amounts will be calculated using a low-cost food plan, potentially resulting in higher payments for eligible families.
  • New Medical Deduction Rules: Introduction of a standard medical deduction of $140 (starting 2025) or actual cost deduction, making it easier for elderly and disabled individuals to cover health expenses.
  • Elimination of Shelter Expense Cap: Removal of the upper limit on shelter expense deductions, which may provide financial relief to families with high housing costs.
  • Removal of Time Limit for Benefits: Elimination of time limits for receiving benefits, ensuring more stable support for those in need.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

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 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Family Economy