2025 ABH Legislative Priorities

2025 is starting off in an unusual way at the Minnesota State Capitol. While it's still unclear which party will control the legislature for the rest of the year, ABH is committed to continuing our work in commercial tobacco prevention and hunger advocacy.

Commercial Tobacco

ABH, in partnership with the Minnesotans for a Smoke-Free Generation coalition, will dedicate this year to advocacy efforts at the State Capitol and to building grassroots support throughout Minnesota. While the coalition anticipates a quieter legislative session, we remain vigilant in monitoring any attempts to undermine the progress achieved in previous sessions. Although the coalition is not introducing its own legislation this year, we recognize that legislative initiatives are just one component of a comprehensive approach. This period presents an opportunity to think creatively, engage with new stakeholders, and strengthen our statewide efforts to protect Minnesotans from the harms of commercial tobacco and vaping.

Hunger Prevention and Food Justice

Though it’s early in the year, hunger prevention advocates are already preparing to support new legislation and protect past victories. While bill numbers aren’t available yet, ABH is committed to supporting the following efforts in 2025:

  • Increasing SNAP Benefits for Seniors: Currently, income-qualified seniors (60 and older) receive a minimum of $23 per month in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. Advocates, led by The Food Group, are pushing to raise this amount to $50 per month for these seniors. If passed, this would help 17,000 older adults and cost the state $7 million per biennium.

  • Expanding the Fresh Bucks Program: The Fresh Bucks Pilot Program would expand the current Market Bucks program, which increases SNAP recipients' purchasing power at farmers' markets. This new program would allow SNAP users to use their benefits at grocery stores year-round, not just during the warmer months. The Food Group is leading this effort as well, and if passed, the pilot program would cost the state $2 million per biennium.

In such a politically uncertain time, it’s more important than ever to advocate for better health. We hope you’ll join us in these efforts!

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Legislative Workshop Empowers ABH Public Health Advocacy Fellows