National Food as Medicine Program Act of 2026

This bill aims to establish or expand "Food as Medicine" programs nationwide by creating a grant program under the **Secretary of Health and Human Services**. States can apply for these grants to plan, implement, expand, or evaluate programs that provide **medically supportive food and nutrition interventions** to individuals eligible for Medicaid waivers. The goal is to reduce nutrition-related chronic conditions, address food and nutrition insecurity, and improve overall health, with priority given to states partnering with healthcare networks or providers of locally-sourced agricultural products.

Additionally, the **Department of Agriculture** is directed to establish a technical assistance program, entering cooperative agreements with eligible entities like land-grant colleges or food hubs. This program will support producers, especially **beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers** using **regenerative or organic production methods**, to connect with healthcare providers for Food as Medicine initiatives. The bill also mandates reports from states on program impact and from HHS to Congress on best practices, alongside guidance development by HHS for states on program implementation, patient eligibility, and value-based food procurement practices.