Texas Gov. Abbott vetoes $60M summer food program for low-income children

Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a $60 million budget allocation for the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT or Sun Bucks) program, which would have provided $120 per eligible low-income child to assist with food purchases during summer months when school meals are unavailable. Abbott cited uncertainty about federal matching funds as the reason for his veto, despite the program being fully federally funded with a safeguard to stop state funding if federal conditions changed. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from educators, hunger relief advocates, and Democratic lawmakers who emphasize that nearly one in four Texas children face food insecurity and that summer meal programs are vital for vulnerable families. Local nonprofits and school districts highlight the growing need for food assistance, noting increased demand and the role schools play in feeding children during the academic year. Critics describe the veto as a moral failure that leaves thousands of children without critical food aid and call for renewed legislative efforts to support low-income families. The veto also contrasts with Abbott's other recent actions, such as calling a special legislative session on THC regulations, underscoring the political tensions surrounding budget priorities.