hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Establishes a national system to rescue and distribute surplus food.
Rep. Ritchie Torres (Democrat, New York), introduced it.
Introduced to the House, referred to committee.
This bill, known as the 'Food Rescue Act,' would create a national system under the Department of Agriculture to coordinate the recovery and distribution of surplus food. Representative Ritchie Torres, a Democrat from New York, introduced this bill. It is currently under review by the House Committee on Agriculture, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives.
Introduced Jan 16, 2026
The 'Food Rescue Act' (H.R. 7144) was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 16, 2026. It has been referred to the House Committee on Agriculture for review. Before it can become law, it must be approved by this committee, pass a vote in the full House, then pass the Senate, and finally be signed by the President.
If this bill becomes law, the Department of Agriculture would create a national system to connect surplus food with people who need it. This could mean that more unsold food from farms, grocery stores, and manufacturers would be collected and delivered to emergency feeding organizations in your area, potentially increasing the variety and amount of food available at local food banks and pantries. Businesses producing excess food might also find it easier to donate their surplus, reducing waste and supporting local communities by providing more consistent access to food.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue this bill efficiently tackles food waste while simultaneously addressing hunger by connecting surplus food with those who need it.
Critics Say
Critics may raise concerns about the costs of establishing and running a new national system or potential overlaps with existing programs.
Those in favor would highlight the dual benefit of reducing significant food waste across the supply chain while also combating food insecurity in communities. They would likely point to the bill's focus on coordination, infrastructure, and technology as ways to make food rescue more efficient and far-reaching. Potential concerns might center on the financial implications of setting up and maintaining a national system, especially since the bill authorizes 'such sums as may be necessary,' which does not specify a funding limit. Others might question the effectiveness of a new national program versus strengthening local initiatives.