Adds new Part 2A, “Military Family Food Security and Readiness Act,” to Article 2 of GS Chapter 108A. Sets out short title and legislative findings. Defines “activated service member” (member of North Carolina National Guard or reserve component of the Armed Forces ordered to duty under Title 10 or Title 32 of the U.S. Code), “deployed” (ordered to active duty outside permanent duty station for 30 consecutive days or more), and “eligible military household” (deployed or activated service member and at least one dependent).

Directs the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to exclude basic housing, subsistence, and family separation allowances and hazard pay in determining eligibility for food and nutrition benefits during deployment or activation to the extent permitted under federal law or by waiver. Directs DHHS to seek any necessary federal approval or waivers.

Directs DHHS to apply an income eligibility adjustment by up to 25% for eligible military households during a qualifying deployment or activation to the extent permissible by federal law. Requires DHHS to implement equivalent relief through State-funded supplemental nutrition program if federal approval is not granted.

Directs DHHS to establish a State-funded supplemental nutrition program for eligible military households that do not otherwise qualify for nutrition benefits based on income but that demonstrate financial hardship due to deployment or activation. Details documentation necessary to apply for benefits and sets minimum benefit amount and duration. Requires that the monthly benefit be no less than $150 and no more than $300. Directs DHHS to submit report on participation, expenditures, and outcomes to the specified NCGA committee by March 1 annually.

Directs DHHS to establish an expedited application process of no more than 10 days and to coordinate with military installations to streamline verification of deployment. Provides that all provisions apply equally to National Guard and Reserve members activated under federal or State authority. Directs DHHS to seek a waiver for able-bodied adults from specified federal work requirement for benefit eligibility purposes. Provides that the act does not apply when a member permanently changes station without dependents.

Appropriates $77.6 million in recurring funds for 2026-27 from the General Fund to DHHS Division of Social Services to implement the act.

Effective and applicable to qualifying deployments occurring on or after July 1, 2026.