Texas Rejects Summer EBT Aid Despite Federal Funding

Texas has been in the news recently as Governor Abbott has been signing and vetoing bills on his desk. One of the biggest surprises this term was the fact that he vetoed Senate Bill 3, the THC Ban. This shocked and surprised many Texans.

Read More: Texas THC Ban Bill SB3 Gets Vetoed

However, while many were commending Governor Abbott on that particular veto, another veto is making waves across the state and the country because it involves Texas children.

How Many Kids in Texas Suffer Food Insecurities?

Many families across the state have food insecurities.  According to Feeding Texas, 1 in 4 children face food insecurity in the Lone Star State.  What this means is that when children are out of school during the summer, they may not have regular meals.

Governor Abbott vetoed a $60 million budget line in Senate Bill 1 that would have given qualifying families with food insecurities an extra $120 on their EBT for summer lunches. If this line on the budget had been signed off on by the Governor, Texas would have gotten $450 million in federal funding, with Texas putting in $60 million to put this program in place.  This program would have helped nearly 4 million Texas children.

Why Did Abbott Veto Summer EBT Funding?

According to Governor Abbott:

As the contingency portions of this rider detail, there is a significant uncertainty regarding federal matching rates for this and other similar programs. Once there is more clarity about the long-term fiscal ramifications of creating such a program, the Legislature can reconsider funding this time.

What Happens to Summer Meals Now?

Keep in mind that this wouldn't have taken effect until 2027; however, it's possible that between now and 2027, some changes and other programs might be put in place to help out with summer food insecurities.

Where Can Texas Families Find Free Summer Meals?

Luckily, you can find many programs across the state of Texas that are administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture to provide summer meal programs.  Square Meals has a map identifying where these programs are located.

This veto came on the heels of Governor Abbott signing Senate Bill 379, banning the purchase of junk food with SNAP Benefits.

Read More: Governor Abbott Signs Bill to Ban Junk Food From SNAP Benefits