OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – In a hearing on Tuesday, Nebraska lawmakers discussed LB 46.
The bill would create the Nebraska Restaurant Program, which could allow those who use EBT cards to buy grab-and-go meals at participating local stores.
The goal is to help with food insecurity in the metro.
At a North Omaha staple, like Big Mama’s Kitchen, the folks there take pride in making sure their food is fulfilling and accessible to their customers.
“We have a place where people can come and get homecooked soul food,” said Gladys Harrison, the owner of Big Mama’s Kitchen. “We have a place where people can come and gather and where people that need a job can get a job.”
Harrison told First Alert 6 they’re interested in participating in the program to help provide nutritious meals.
“It will give people who need access to food more access to food,” Harrison said.
The program would give access to those with disabilities, homeless, or those over 60 years old to buy a prepared meal.
Sen. Terrell McKinney, who wrote the bill, told First Alert 6 there are still many details in the works, including the full list of participating restaurants.
But his mission is clear.
“People don’t realize how many people don’t have homecooked meals as much as one would think,” McKinney said. “It’s been successful in other states, so why shouldn’t we do it here.”
The folks at Big Mama’s Kitchen agree.
“Not being able to offer these services to people that’s what the negative impact is,” Harrison said.
McKinney also stressed that this bill isn’t intended to give more access to fast food places, but rather local businesses that provide home cooked meals.
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