Bill > AB1211

This bill aims to protect CalFresh (California's version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP) benefits by ensuring that benefit levels do not drop below the level established on January 20, 2025. If the federal government proposes reductions that would lower CalFresh benefits, the State Department of Social Services would be required to maintain the existing benefit level, using state funds if necessary. The bill acknowledges the current low average daily benefit of $6.16 per person and seeks to minimize potential harm to low-income families. Additionally, the bill mandates that the department conduct a feasibility study on expanding CalFresh program eligibility and benefits, with a requirement to submit a one-time report to legislative committees by January 1, 2027. The study and reporting provisions are set to expire on January 1, 2031. The legislation is motivated by concerns about potential benefit cuts and a commitment to addressing food insecurity, particularly emphasizing that California, with its significant economic resources, should ensure its residents have access to adequate nutrition.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1211