Bill > HB740

This bill aims to expand access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for students enrolled in postsecondary educational institutions by requiring the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission to adopt rules that define eligibility criteria. The bill broadly defines postsecondary educational institutions to include traditional colleges, universities, private institutions, and career schools, and mandates the creation of a work group composed of 9-13 members representing educational institutions and nonprofit organizations serving low-income individuals to provide input on developing these rules. The rules must specify the types of degree programs and educational experiences (including work placements and unpaid internships) that qualify for benefits, and ensure students remain eligible during academic breaks. The work group will be automatically dissolved after the rules are adopted, and the provisions related to the work group will expire on September 1, 2027. The bill requires the work group to be established by December 31, 2025, and the specific SNAP eligibility rules to be adopted by December 31, 2026, with the overall act taking effect on September 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill allows for potential delays in implementation if federal waivers or authorizations are needed.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB740