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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

Legislative History

Click on each PL number to see a summary of the laws. Information concerning each public law is also located at the Library of Congress.

  1960-61
  Only 6 food stamp bills introduced.
 
  1961
  Jan. 21: Kennedy issued an Executive Order initiating FSP pilot projects funded through Section 32 funds. Participants purchased coupons of a higher value than their cash contribution and used the coupons to purchase food at retail stores. Program purchases not limited to surplus commodities.
  Feb. 2: Kennedy announced the initiation of pilot program in 8 project areas.
  March 16: Kennedy's farm message to Congress reported on progress of pilot programs.
  May 29: Mr. and Mrs. Muncy of West Virginia bought the first food stamps since 1943.
 
  1962
  Kennedy asks for more money for pilot project. 56 new projects planned.
 
  1963
  Jan. 31: Kennedy asks for legislation authorizing a permanent FSP.
 
  1964
  Jan. 31: Johnson renewed request for permanent FSP.
  Aug. 31:  P.L. 88-525 The Food Stamp Act of 1964
 
  1966
  Oct. 11:  P.L. 89-642
 
Child Nutrition Act of 1966
  1967
  Field Foundation Report on Poverty and Malnutrition; press, hunger coalitions; movie "Hunger in America"; all raised public awareness concerning need.
 
  1969
  Increased appropriations for all food programs. FSP expanded.
  May 27:  FNS formed to coordinate child and adult food programs.
 

Last modified: 11/21/2008