Some states are attempting to increase SNAP monthly allotments to match the temporary increases offered as a federal emergency measure now that pandemic Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments are ending.
SNAP, a monthly payment for qualified low-income individuals to utilize for food purchases, was used by almost 41 million people in 2022 alone. Depending on family size and income, the emergency allotments gave families an extra $95 or more monthly.
The SNAP benefit minimum set by the federal government is $23 per month. Activists and legislators are worried about the impact the elimination of the emergency supplement will have on low-income individuals, particularly in communities of color.
California SNAP Payouts
A measure sponsored by state Senator Caroline Menjivar (D) would increase the state’s minimum CalFresh payout to $50 by January 2025.
ALSO READ: Maximum Salary In California To Claim The SNAP Benefits
Massachusetts
In a supplementary budget, Governor Maura Healey (D) has asked for $130 million for benefits to act as a bridge for the more than 630,000 Massachusetts families that depend on the program.
GoBankingRates (via Yahoo! Finance) said Healey’s administration is recommending an additional allocation equal to 40% of the prior federal benefit during the next three months.
After each chamber approved a separate version of Healey’s budget, the Massachusetts Senate and House are trying to develop a definitive one, according to Telegram & Gazette.
New Jersey
Last month, Gov. Phil Murphy (D) signed legislation increasing the state’s minimum payout from $50 to $95 per family per month. The first state to accomplish this is New Jersey.
West Virginia
West Virginia lawmakers have submitted several SNAP-related measures, one of which would demand that monthly payments for pregnant women and families with children be increased to “at least match” federal emergency quotas.
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