New bill introduced in the House aims to restrict SNAP benefits in nine states
Representative Brandon Gill has introduced a new bill aiming to completely eliminate the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program, which operates in nine states.
A new bill introduced in the House of Representatives aims to narrow the scope of SNAP benefits, which provide food assistance to approximately 37 million Americans. Authored by Representative Brandon Gill, the bill aims to terminate the restaurant program implemented in certain states.
SNAP Program and Restaurant Meals
SNAP, a food assistance program, helps millions of American citizens meet their basic food needs. In nine states, some eligible beneficiaries who have difficulty preparing meals are able to purchase hot food from approved restaurants.
Bill Will Affect Nine States
Titled the Ending Restaurant Purchases with SNAP Act of 2026 and introduced by Texas Representative Brandon Gill, the bill aims to completely eliminate this option.
According to USDA data, the Restaurant Meals Program currently operates in only nine states: Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Rhode Island, and Virginia.
Scope and Target Audience of the Program
The program in question aims to facilitate access to food for individuals at risk of chronic hunger who cannot easily cook meals, such as the homeless, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, or the spouses of such persons.
Statements by Representative Gill
Representative Brandon Gill argued that the program creates a loophole allowing federal aid to be spent on unhealthy foods. Gill stated that taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for fast food.
Stating that more than half a billion dollars in SNAP funds were transferred to restaurants within two years, Gill emphasized that the funds should be used for nutritious grocery items.
Debates and Alternative Approaches
Critics argue that the additional restrictions imposed unnecessarily stigmatize the food choices of low-income Americans. On the other hand, other bills submitted to Congress include projects providing additional budgets for the purchase of fresh fruits or vegetables.
Both bills have been referred to the House Agriculture Committee for evaluation.