H.R.3217 - Stop Child Hunger Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3217, the Stop Child Hunger Act of 2025, aims to amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act. The primary goal is to expand the summer electronic benefits transfer (EBT) program to include benefit transfers during school closures. This expansion seeks to provide nutritional support to children who rely on school meals, even when schools are not in session.
Expected Effects
The bill would broaden the scope of the summer EBT program, ensuring that eligible children receive food benefits during both summer months and periods of school closures. It also adjusts the administrative cost-sharing between the federal government and state agencies over several years, starting with 100% federal coverage in 2026 and decreasing to 50% by 2031. Finally, it allocates $50 million for states to develop or upgrade data systems necessary for implementing the expanded EBT program.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced Child Hunger: Provides consistent access to nutritious food for children during school closures.
- Improved Food Security: Enhances food security for low-income families with children.
- State Support: Offers grants to states for data system development, easing implementation.
- Administrative Funding: Initially covers 100% of administrative expenses, gradually decreasing to 50%.
- Addresses School Closures: Specifically targets food insecurity during unexpected school closures.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Federal Spending: Requires additional federal funding for EBT benefits and administrative costs.
- State Administrative Burden: States will eventually bear a larger share of administrative costs, potentially straining state budgets.
- Potential for Fraud: Expanded program scope may increase the risk of fraud or misuse of benefits.
- Implementation Challenges: States may face challenges in developing and implementing the necessary data systems.
- Dependency Concerns: May create dependency on government assistance for some families.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Article I, Section 8), which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation. The expansion of food benefits to children during school closures can be argued as promoting the general welfare by addressing food insecurity and supporting child nutrition. The allocation of funds for state administrative expenses also falls under Congress's power to appropriate funds for federal programs.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).