Bill > SB461

This bill amends the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families, by altering the eligibility requirements for the Heat and Eat Program, which aims to increase food access for SNAP recipients. Specifically, the bill mandates that to be eligible for the Heat and Eat Program, a household must now include an elderly or disabled individual, in addition to being eligible for SNAP benefits. The bill also clarifies that a "standard utility allowance" refers to a Maryland Energy Assistance Program payment of at least $21 annually, and it requires the Department of Human Services to establish regulations for verifying household eligibility and implementing the program. This change will take effect on October 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0461?ys=2026RS