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Committee advances $1 million for Double Up Food Bucks pilot expansion after farmers and local co‑op testify
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Summary
Appropriations members advanced a $1 million appropriation to expand the Double Up Food Bucks produce incentive program (HB2385 as amended). Farmers and co‑op operators testified the program doubles SNAP purchasing power for produce and supports rural access; witnesses warned that cutting funds would force site closures.
The committee considered House Bill 2385, amended to appropriate $1 million from the general fund for the Double Up Food Bucks (produce incentive) program. Local farmers and cooperative operators testified in favor, describing the program as a way to double SNAP recipients’ purchasing power for fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets, grocery co‑ops and corner stores.
John Benedict, a small‑scale vegetable farmer and co‑op CEO from McNeal, described how the program raises the effective SNAP buying power for participants and helps local producers by increasing sales. Jesse Gruner of Pinnacle Prevention noted the program grew from 8 sites in 2016 to 75 sites and said a 1‑time $1 million appropriation would sustain operations but further cuts would force site closures. Committee members questioned prior-year appropriations and asked about administrative costs, reconciliation burdens on small vendors and possible technological solutions to reduce reporting overhead.
The committee debated sponsor amendments that lowered the one‑time amount from earlier drafts; after discussion it adopted the amendment and gave HB2385 as amended a due‑pass recommendation (18 yes, 0 no). Members asked the agency to provide implementation plans and noted the appropriation will be part of budget negotiations.
