Bill > HB539

This bill aims to expand eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, in Hawaii by raising the income threshold from 200% to 300% of the federal poverty level. The legislation addresses the challenges faced by low-income households struggling with high living costs, particularly highlighting the "benefits cliff" where earning just a small amount more can result in losing significant food assistance. Under the proposed law, individuals and households with monthly incomes at or below 300% of the federal poverty level would be eligible for SNAP benefits, with state funds used to subsidize benefits for those not covered by federal funding. The bill appropriates $50 million for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to implement these expanded benefits, which will be administered by the department of human services. The calculation of benefits will continue to use the federal SNAP benefit formula, and the legislation is designed to help economically vulnerable households meet their basic needs without sacrificing financial security, while also bringing additional federal dollars into the state's economy.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=539&year=2026