# Plain Language Summary: OH SNAP, Close the Fruit and Vegetable Gap Act of 2023

This bill aims to expand access to fresh fruits and vegetables for people who receive SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps). Right now, many SNAP recipients struggle to afford fresh produce because their benefits don't stretch far enough to cover both basic staples and healthier foods. This bill would provide additional money specifically designated for buying fruits and vegetables, helping low-income families put more fresh produce on their tables.

The bill recognizes that there's a significant gap between what SNAP currently covers and what nutritionists recommend people eat. Fresh fruits and vegetables are essential for good health, but they're often more expensive than processed foods, making them harder for families on tight budgets to purchase regularly. By creating this targeted supplement, the legislation aims to reduce diet-related health problems like obesity and diabetes that disproportionately affect lower-income communities.

If passed, this would mean that eligible SNAP recipients would receive extra funds that can only be used to buy fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables at grocery stores and farmers markets. This approach encourages healthier eating habits while supporting local agriculture and food retailers. The bill essentially acknowledges that poverty shouldn't prevent people from accessing the nutritious foods that help prevent serious health conditions, and it puts money directly into the hands of families who need it most.

OH SNAP, Close the Fruit and Vegetable Gap Act of 2023

Booker, Cory A.

Opt for Health with SNAP, Close the Fruit and Vegetable Gap Act of 2023 or the OH SNAP, Close the Fruit and Vegetable Gap Act of 2023This bill reauthorizes, and provides increased specified funds for, the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP) for FY2024-FY2028 and each fiscal year thereafter. GusNIP provides competitive grants for projects that increase low-income consumers' purchases of fruits and vegetables by providing (1) incentives at Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) points of purchase, and (2) produce prescriptions to SNAP/Medicaid participants.