The benefits of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are one of the most important tools at the federal and state levels for people in need in the United States and its territories. Although it is based on the old food stamp system, it is now done through an electronic credit card, facilitating the purchase of food and beverages at participating stores. This program has been especially crucial during the pandemic, providing support to low-income households, but it has saved from poverty millions of families over the years.
As for the proposed changes to SNAP benefits, we must remark that each state has autonomy to manage the program according to its own rules and protocols. Currently, several states such as Arizona, Iowa, Kentucky, Nebraska, Ohio, and West Virginia are debating bills that could modify eligibility, limit certain allowed foods or beverages, and adjust income standards for SNAP applications. These changes reflect a new approach in which states have greater control over the distribution of benefits.
Where and When Will the Food Stamps Changes Come into Play?
The USDA, entity that funds the SNAP benefits program (funds that are allocated by the states) stay informed about these updates, as they could significantly affect SNAP beneficiaries in those states and, possibly, in others that are added to these new legislations. We are committed to providing up-to-date information on any changes related to SNAP benefits by state, so that citizens are aware of how these changes could influence their access to this important nutritional assistance.
In Arizona, House Bill 2502 is being debated, which seeks to implement additional requirements for healthy beneficiaries of the SNAP program who are between the ages of 18 and 60. This bill proposes that these beneficiaries participate in work and training programs as part of their eligibility to receive SNAP benefits.
In addition, Bill 2503 is discussed, which seeks to prohibit the exemptions currently granted by the Department of Economic Security in Arizona related to work and training requirements for SNAP beneficiaries.
In the state of Iowa, legislation is being drafted that seeks to restrict purchases made with the benefits of the food stamps to specific foods, which are not considered essential by some state legislators. This legislation proposes to exclude the possibility of purchasing sweets and sugar-free drinks with SNAP benefits in the state.
Unlike the aforementioned states, where legislation is still being debated, Kentucky has already passed House Bill 367, which establishes a financial assets test and increases the income standards for SNAP applications. This involves the reintroduction of asset ceilings and the reduction of the gross income upper limit from 200 percent to 130 percent.
Other States to Approve SNAP Eligibility Changes
In Nebraska, the Republican-backed Bill 1381 is being considered, which proposes that beneficiaries of the SNAP program participate obligatorily in work and training programs. However, this participation would be excluded for those who have three or more convictions for possession or use of controlled substances.
This means that, if the legislation is passed, SNAP recipients will have to meet certain employment or training requirements in order to continue receiving benefits, except for those with specific drug-related criminal records.
Continuing with the list of states that could approve related changes, in Ohio, there is a possibility that SNAP benefits for older applicants will be increased, according to House Bill 428.
This bill proposes to provide additional payments to people who currently receive less than $50 a month in food stamps. This means that, if the legislation is approved, SNAP beneficiaries in Ohio who are in this situation could receive additional financial support to cover their nutritional needs.
In the state of West Virginia, the implementation of a work and training program for SNAP recipients is being considered. This program would be similar to those that already exist in the states of Arizona, Kentucky, and Nebraska. One of the possible modifications would include raising the age limit to participate in this program, allowing people able to work and without dependents to access it until the age of 59.
This would mean that more SNAP recipients in West Virginia would have the opportunity to participate in job and training activities to improve their employability and financial autonomy.
