SB 1499: Creates the "Food is Medicine Act"

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

SB 1499 - This act creates the "Food is Medicine Act". Under this act, the Department of Social Services shall submit a waiver to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for a "Food is Medicine" program. The program shall be designed to improve health outcomes for MO HealthNet participants with nutrition-related chronic diseases through nutrition services and to reduce the need for medical care for those participants. Covered nutrition services may include case management, nutrition counseling, meals or pantry stocking, nutrition prescriptions, and grocery provisions. When feasible, the MO HealthNet Division shall prioritize the inclusion of community-based organizations and local growers to support the purchase of locally grown food in nutrition prescription. This act is identical to SB 1075 (2026), substantially similar to SCS/HCS/HB 2355 (2026), and similar to a provision in the truly agreed to and finally passed SS/SCS/HCS/HB 2372 (2026) SARAH HASKINS

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. April 8, 2026Hearing Conducted S Families, Seniors and Health Committee
2. April 1, 2026Hearing Cancelled S Families, Seniors and Health Committee
3. March 9, 2026Re-referred S Families, Seniors and Health Committee
4. March 5, 2026Hearing Cancelled S Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources Committee
5. February 5, 2026Second Read and Referred S Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources Committee
6. January 7, 2026S First Read
7. January 6, 2026Prefiled