Summer EBT Oklahoma bill advances to deliver food aid for children
- mike33692
- 20 hours ago
- 2 min read
A proposal aimed at expanding food access for children during the summer months is moving forward at the Oklahoma Capitol. The Summer EBT Oklahoma bill would allow the state to access up to $50 million in federal nutrition funding to support families while school is out — a period when many students lose access to daily school meals.
Summer EBT Oklahoma bill clears committee
The measure won unanimous approval in a House committee and is designed to bypass the governor’s earlier decision not to participate in a federal summer food program. Supporters say the Summer EBT Oklahoma bill would ensure children in low-income households continue receiving assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Lawmakers say the funding would be used specifically for food support targeting children, helping families offset higher grocery costs during summer months. Advocates point to research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Feeding America showing food insecurity increases when school meal programs pause. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services has also noted rising demand for nutrition assistance in recent years.
Public-private partnership to expand child nutrition
Representative Ellen Pogemiller, who supports the bill, says the plan could grow beyond federal dollars. Nonprofits and private donors would be able to contribute funding, creating a broader public-private partnership aimed at fighting child hunger.
Backers argue the approach gives Oklahoma flexibility while still tapping available federal resources. Programs modeled after summer EBT in other states have shown measurable improvements in child nutrition, grocery access, and household stability, according to data from the Brookings Institution and national hunger-relief organizations.
Impact on families and local communities
If approved by the full Legislature, the initiative would help thousands of families cover food costs during the summer and reduce pressure on food banks and local charities. Lawmakers say the proposal balances fiscal concerns while prioritizing food security for children — a recurring issue discussed at the Capitol.
Supporters emphasize the goal is simple: ensure no child goes without meals when school cafeterias close.