SNAP Benefits Fairness Act of 2023

SNAP Benefits Fairness Act of 2023

This bill repeals the shelter deduction cap for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit, thereby allowing a household to deduct all allowable housing expenses (e.g., rent or mortgage, electricity, and water costs) that exceed 50% of a household's income after other deductions when calculating net income to determine SNAP benefits.

Under current law, the shelter deduction is capped (unless at least one household member is an elderly or disabled individual), and the cap is adjusted annually for inflation. In FY2023, the shelter deduction was capped at $624 for households in the contiguous 48 states and the District of Columbia.

The SNAP Benefits Fairness Act of 2023, also known as Bill 118 hr 1765, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The bill aims to address issues of fairness and equity in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families.

One key provision of the bill is the establishment of a minimum benefit level for SNAP recipients. This means that no individual or household receiving SNAP benefits would receive less than a certain amount each month, regardless of their income or other circumstances. This provision is intended to ensure that all SNAP recipients have access to a basic level of food assistance, regardless of their individual circumstances.

Another important aspect of the bill is the inclusion of measures to streamline the application and recertification processes for SNAP benefits. This includes simplifying the paperwork required to apply for benefits, as well as implementing measures to reduce the administrative burden on both applicants and program administrators. These changes are intended to make it easier for eligible individuals and families to access the benefits they need, while also reducing the likelihood of errors or delays in the application process. Overall, the SNAP Benefits Fairness Act of 2023 seeks to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the SNAP program, while also ensuring that all eligible individuals and families have access to the food assistance they need. The bill is currently being debated in Congress, and its ultimate fate will depend on the outcome of these deliberations.