SB 6411-S - DIGEST

(NOT SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE ORIGINAL BILL)

Recognizes that improved access to federal nutrition and assistance programs, such as the federal food stamp program, can be a critical factor in enabling recipients to gain the ability to support themselves and their families. This is an important step towards self-sufficiency and decreased long-term reliance on governmental assistance and will serve to strengthen families in this state.

Provides that, to the maximum extent allowable by federal law, the department shall implement simplified reporting for the food stamp program by October 31, 2004.

Declares that, for the purposes of this act, "simplified reporting" means the only change in circumstance that a recipient of a benefit program must report between eligibility reviews is an increase of income that would result in ineligibility for the benefit program. Every six months the assistance unit must either complete a semiannual report or participate in an eligibility review.

Provides that, to the maximum extent allowable by federal law, beginning on October 31, 2005, the department shall provide transitional food stamp assistance for a period of five months to a household that ceases to receive temporary assistance for needy families assistance. If necessary, the department shall extend the household's food stamp certification until the end of the transition period.

Provides that, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 862a(d)(1), the department shall exempt individuals from the eligibility restrictions of 21 U.S.C. 862a(a)(2) to ensure eligibility for federal food assistance.