Bill > SB963

This bill enhances the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Hawaii by implementing several key provisions: First, the Department of Human Services will now have the ability to prorate or exclude income from household members who are ineligible for SNAP, ensuring that benefit calculations do not unfairly penalize eligible members. Second, the bill establishes a standardized medical expense deduction for elderly or disabled households with medical expenses above a federal threshold, simplifying the application process and allowing households to choose between a standard deduction or claiming actual medical expenses. Third, the bill creates a pre-release SNAP application process for incarcerated individuals scheduled for release, which includes partnering with correctional facilities to identify eligible individuals, help them complete applications, and provide transition assistance. Additionally, the bill removes treatment compliance requirements for individuals with drug-related felony convictions, effectively allowing them to receive SNAP and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits. The Department of Human Services will be required to submit annual reports to the Legislature detailing the implementation, utilization, costs, and impacts of these new SNAP program options. The bill is set to take effect on December 31, 2050.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=963&year=2026