Bill > SB0032

This bill amends the Illinois Public Aid Code to expand eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for households that include veterans or members of the armed forces. Specifically, these households would be considered categorically eligible for SNAP benefits if their gross income is at or below 200% of the nonfarm income poverty guidelines, subject to federal approval and funding. The bill provides clear definitions for key terms, defining "armed forces" as any branch of the United States military, including reserve and National Guard components, and "veteran" as a person who served in the armed forces and was discharged under honorable conditions. The legislation builds upon existing provisions that already provide similar categorical eligibility for households with elderly, blind, or disabled individuals, with the key difference being the focus on military-connected households. Importantly, the bill includes a stipulation that this provision does not create an obligation for the Department of Human Services to use state funds to provide these benefits, suggesting the expansion is contingent on federal support.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=32&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104