House Budget Released
In late March, the Washington State House of Representatives released a new budget that demonstrates that State leaders understand the need for improving access to food and addressing poverty. Families come first in the proposed budget as it works to fund community development, healthy people, a healthy environment, and reduce barriers to education.
Some key funding improvements included in the proposed budget are:
- Breakfast After the Bell gains $2.6 million in high-poverty schools. This increases participation in the program, the health of students, and productivity for everyone.
- Washington State Department of Agriculture gains $500,000 to support Washington farmers in their efforts to expand their markets including connecting with school districts.
- The Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP) and Farmers Market Nutrition Program for WIC and Seniors maintain funding from previous years.
- SNAP technology receives funding to be modernized for the application and use.
The proposed House Bill does spend more than the Senate Bill; but it will gain these funds from higher taxes for the wealthy rather than negatively impacting low-income citizens. These changes make progress towards a healthier Washington and make vital improvements necessary to address hunger.
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