Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act

The Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act seeks to integrate Puerto Rico into the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), moving it away from its current nutrition assistance block grant. This transition involves amending the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to recognize Puerto Rico as a "State" for SNAP eligibility and program administration. Specifically, it modifies definitions and eligibility sections to include Puerto Rico alongside other U.S. territories and states. To facilitate this change, Puerto Rico must submit a detailed plan of operation for transitioning to SNAP within 180 days of designating a responsible agency. The Secretary of Agriculture will provide appropriate technical assistance during this period and must approve or disapprove the plan within 180 days of receipt. Upon approval, the Secretary will certify to Congress that Puerto Rico qualifies to participate in SNAP as a State. The existing consolidated block grant for Puerto Rico will continue for a transition period, lasting up to five years after the amendments' effective date or until the Secretary determines it's no longer needed. During this time, the Secretary will provide annual reports to Congress detailing the block grant's operation and the funding increases required for the SNAP transition. Crucially, while the Act takes effect upon enactment, the substantive amendments enabling Puerto Rico's full participation in SNAP will become effective ten years after the date of enactment .