Texas lawmakers passed three important laws that will help families access food and healthcare more easily. First, they approved money to upgrade the computer system that determines who qualifies for benefits like food stamps, which will help families get approved faster. Second, they passed a law that removes sales tax when food banks buy trucks, making it cheaper for food banks to deliver food to communities.
Third, they created a 'Food Is Medicine' program that lets doctors prescribe healthy food as part of medical care through Medicaid, including a special pilot program for pregnant women. These changes mean families won't have to wait as long for help, food banks can serve more people with lower costs, and healthcare providers can address hunger as part of treating patients. The Houston Food Bank supported these policy wins because they directly address barriers that prevent people from getting the food and care they need.
Together, these laws create a stronger safety net that connects food security with healthcare, recognizing that good nutrition is essential for health and wellbeing.