An act relating to implementing the Restaurant Meals Program

This bill implements Vermont's participation in the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Restaurant Meals Program, allowing eligible SNAP recipients to use their benefits to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants. Restaurants must meet specific criteria - such as being licensed, promoting locally sourced foods, representing diverse cultural cuisines, and operating in areas with high SNAP participation - to join the program. The bill allocates $100,000 for a new program coordinator position and $75,000 for restaurant startup costs, with implementation beginning July 1, 2025.