Bill > SB1055

This bill seeks to improve access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, in Hawaii by making several key changes. The bill requires the Department of Human Services to adjust certification periods for SNAP households to a minimum of 12 months for most households and 24 months for households with members 60 years or older. It mandates participation in the Elderly Simplified Application Project, which includes establishing 36-month recertification periods for households with seniors or disabled adults and waiving recertification interviews where allowed by federal law. The bill also appropriates funds to strengthen SNAP by authorizing pay increases for SNAP-related positions, establishing new positions to improve program access in economically disadvantaged communities, and supporting initiatives to increase participation rates. Additionally, the Department of Human Services must submit reports to the legislature in 2026 and 2027 detailing SNAP implementation, administrative costs, and participation rates. The bill is motivated by findings that SNAP is crucial for supporting low-income households in Hawaii, supporting over 130,000 individuals and bringing $630 million into the state's economy annually, and aims to address barriers to participation and food insecurity. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1055&year=2026