SNAP; temporary funding; federal government

HB 2683 creates Arizona's "emergency food assistance fund" to provide temporary food aid during federal government shutdowns that disrupt the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The $5 million state appropriation (for fiscal year 2026-2027) allows the state department to issue food vouchers or direct assistance to households ineligible for SNAP and fund food pantries and community organizations. This fund operates continuously without expiring, bypassing standard state budget rules. It directly affects Arizonans relying on food assistance during federal funding gaps and supports local hunger relief networks.