The reason for the pass is simple, according to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. When the USDA notified HHSC officials of their new Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer, or EBT program on Dec. 29, that gave the nation's second largest state only six months to get it up and running and that's not enough time, said Tiffany Young, a spokesperson for the state agency.

Additionally, the USDA would only cover 50% of the administrative expenses for Summer EBT. It would be up to the state to cover the residual cost.

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Though not as comprehensive as Summer EBT, food insecure children still have options for food assistance during the summer. Miller told the Tribune that "kids aren't going to get fed any less" on account of the TDA's expansion of their Summer Meals Program. Children 18 and under are eligible to receive a free meal at their meal sites across the state.