CT SB00364

Commissioner of Social Services shall stagger distribution of supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits for beneficiaries newly enrolled on and after January 1, 2025, across multiple intervals during each month.

Commissioner must file a distribution plan report to the joint standing committee on human services by October 1, 2024, and a follow-up implementation report by January 1, 2026.

Commissioner shall study state participation in the USDA Restaurant Meals Program to provide eligible beneficiaries with variety of restaurant choices and healthy meal options statewide while minimizing impact on grocery store access.

Restaurant Meals Program eligibility is limited to supplemental nutrition assistance beneficiaries who are age 60 or older, disabled, homeless, or the spouse of an eligible beneficiary.

Commissioner must file a report by October 1, 2024, with recommendations on recruiting participating restaurants, payment options, maintaining adequate grocery store availability, and associated costs.