Maryland Food Bank Releases 2026 Legislative Agenda

Today, the Maryland Food Bank released its 2026 legislative agenda, outlining top policy priorities to advance food security across the state during the 446th session of the Maryland General Assembly.

At the top of the 2026 legislative agenda is protecting and preserving the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the nation’s most crucial hunger-fighting program. Changes introduced at the federal level through HR 1 have shifted eligibility for SNAP and will increase the cost of administering the program at the state level. Both changes will result in fewer Marylanders accessing SNAP benefits; many will turn to food banks and food pantries to get access to the nutritious food they need.

During the 90-day legislative session, the food bank will advocate for policies that safeguard this critical benefit, which currently provides 9 meals for every 1 meal provided by the charitable food system.

“We know that increased food security for communities means going beyond providing a nutritious meal to shifting policies that impact the root causes of hunger, including maintaining strong support for SNAP in Maryland,” said Anne Wallerstedt, Vice President of Government Relations and Strategic Initiatives. “I’m eager to work alongside colleagues in the Maryland General Assembly to eliminate barriers to food security and help neighbors thrive.”

Other legislative priorities include reducing child hunger by providing breakfast and lunch to all students at no cost to their families; bolstering Maryland agriculture and enhancing connections between local food producers and food assistance organizations; and promoting sustainability in food donation and assistance.