Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Child Nutrition topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
State Finance Council releases $1.8 million for summer EBT administrative costs after USDA waiver submitted
Summary
The council approved release of $1.8 million in administrative funding for the Summer EBT program following the Department for Children and Families’ submission of a waiver to USDA; vote recorded 8–0.
The State Finance Council on May 13 approved releasing $1,800,000 to cover administrative costs for the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program after the Department for Children and Families certified that it had submitted a waiver to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
"That waiver was submitted last week on May 8," Secretary Howard told the council, referring to the department's waiver request to exclude candy and soft drinks from the definition of eligible foods under SNAP for the Summer EBT implementation. Based on that submission, Howard asked the council to release the funds appropriated in Section 152 of Senate Bill 125.
A senator raised a question about an earlier, briefly withdrawn waiver filing. Secretary Howard acknowledged an earlier administrative error and said the department had resubmitted the waiver now that the budget passage was final: "That was really an administrative error on my staff's part... So no, we have submitted the waiver, and we will begin conversations with the USDA about what an implementation plan looks like." The senator sought and received confirmation that there was no intention to withdraw the waiver this time.
Representative Woodard moved to approve the DCF resolution related to Summer EBT administrative expenses, and Senate President Masterson seconded. A roll call vote was taken; the clerk reported "The vote is 8 to 0," and the chair announced the resolution passed.
Materials provided to the council included a copy of the waiver submission and proof of submission dated May 8. Secretary Howard said the funds are intended to pay for fiscal year 2025 administrative costs of operating the Summer EBT program after schools adjourn for the season.
No further implementation details were specified in the council meeting; Secretary Howard said the department will consult with USDA on an implementation plan following waiver processing.
