Texas Governor Greg Abbott has vetoed a $60 million budget item that would have funded a summer food assistance program for low-income children through the federally backed Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) initiative.
The program, established by Congress in 2022, aims to provide $120 per eligible child during the summer months when school meals are unavailable.
Abbott cited concerns over uncertainty regarding federal matching rates as the reason for the veto. As a result, Texas will forgo an estimated $450 million in federal funds intended to support the program.
The decision makes Texas one of about a dozen states choosing not to participate in the Summer EBT program.
Anti-hunger advocates and lawmakers have criticized the move, warning of increased food insecurity among children who rely on school meals during the academic year.
The vetoed funds were part of a broader list of 26 bills rejected by Abbott. His office has not announced any alternative plan to compensate for the loss of food support during the summer break.
The Summer EBT program specifically targets families with children who qualify for free or reduced-price lunches during the school year.
Without state participation, thousands of Texas families may face additional strain to meet food needs during the summer.
