Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn, Ben Ray Luján, and Tommy Tuberville have introduced a bill aimed at expanding access to frozen fruits and vegetables for participants of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The legislation, named the Supporting All Healthy Options When Purchasing Produce (SHOPP) Act, seeks to provide SNAP beneficiaries with more options for balanced meals.

Senator Cornyn stated, "Access to whole, nutrient-dense foods are essential to making America healthy again. The SHOPP Act will help meet this need for Texas families and communities across the country by ensuring SNAP participants are able to put well-balanced meals full of fruits and vegetables on their dinner tables."

Senator Luján expressed pride in reintroducing the bipartisan act, emphasizing its role in enhancing food security and supporting healthier communities nationwide. He noted its particular importance in rural and Tribal areas where fresh produce is often scarce: "I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to move it forward."

Senator Tuberville highlighted concerns about processed foods while advocating for expanded access to frozen alternatives: "SNAP participants deserve access to healthy alternatives... Expanding access to frozen fruits and vegetables is a step in the right direction of Making America Healthy Again."

The bill is complemented by companion legislation led by U.S. Representatives Jasmine Crockett from Texas and Mark Alford from Missouri.

Currently, the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP), which supports low-income families' access to healthy food through SNAP, only funds fresh produce. The SHOPP Act proposes that local GusNIP providers be allowed to include frozen fruits and vegetables as well. This change aims to assist those living in rural or urban food deserts by making diverse diets more feasible.

The introduction of this legislation coincides with National Nutrition Month and National Frozen Food Month. It has received endorsements from organizations such as the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) and the Houston Food Bank.