S. 5429 — Hot Meals for College Students Act of 2026

This section authorizes eligible student households participating in the supplemental nutrition assistance program to use benefits to purchase on-campus meals from authorized merchants at institutions of higher education, effective upon issuance of final regulations. It prohibits use for meal plans, account balances, or fees; requires merchants to charge the same prices without surcharges; directs the Secretary to issue implementing regulations within 1 year of enactment; and requires a study and public report within 2 years on participation, food insecurity rates among college students, and related outcomes.