TRENTON, NJ – The Assembly Human Services Committee has favorably reported Assembly Bill No. 2040, a significant step towards enhancing accessibility for SNAP beneficiaries. This bill urges the Commissioner of Human Services to request the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service to allow the use of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits for covering grocery delivery fees.
Currently, SNAP funds cannot be used to pay for the delivery charges associated with home grocery deliveries. This bill aims to change that, making it easier for low-income households to access food without the added burden of delivery costs.
In March 2020, New Jersey’s SNAP participants were included in a USDA pilot program for online grocery purchasing. This initiative allowed them to buy groceries online from various retailers, including Amazon and 17 other statewide stores. However, the inability to use SNAP benefits for delivery fees has remained a limitation.
SNAP, a vital nutrition assistance program, is regulated by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and is designed to support low-income households in meeting their nutritional needs. At the state level, SNAP is administered by county welfare agencies under the supervision of the Department of Human Services’ Division of Family Development (DFD).
Assembly Bill No. 2040, prepared for introduction in the 2022-2023 session, includes revisions from a technical review. If approved, this bill could significantly ease the process of obtaining groceries for many SNAP beneficiaries, particularly those with limited mobility or those living in areas with fewer grocery stores.
Advocates believe that allowing SNAP benefits to cover food delivery service fees will have a positive impact on the lives of SNAP beneficiaries. According to Assemblywoman Marchitto, one of the bill’s sponsors, This legislation recognizes the importance of expanding access to food for SNAP households. By removing the financial barrier of delivery fees, we can ensure that vulnerable individuals and families have access to fresh and nutritious food without enduring additional costs.
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of accessible and affordable food options for low-income individuals and families. With many individuals self-isolating or unable to leave their homes due to health concerns, the ability to have groceries delivered has become increasingly crucial.
This bill aligns with efforts to address food insecurity and support vulnerable communities. By allowing SNAP beneficiaries to utilize their benefits for food delivery fees, New Jersey aims to provide greater convenience and accessibility to those who need it most.
If the bill is passed into law, it would not only benefit low-income households but also support local businesses and delivery services. By utilizing SNAP benefits for delivery fees, more customers would be able to access online shopping platforms and local grocery stores, leading to increased revenue for these establishments.
The potential implementation of allowing SNAP benefits to cover food delivery service fees in New Jersey signifies a significant step towards improving the lives of SNAP beneficiaries. It acknowledges the changing landscape of grocery shopping and aims to ensure that all individuals have access to fresh and healthy food options, regardless of their economic circumstances.
By addressing the issue of delivery fees, this bill has the potential to impact thousands of SNAP beneficiaries positively. It is anticipated that this initiative will serve as a model for other states seeking to enhance the accessibility of SNAP benefits and promote equal access to nutritious food for all Americans.
