This bill proposes significant updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It mandates that the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) reduce the SNAP payment error rate to no more than 3% by December 30, 2030. Additionally, it requires DES to submit an annual report to the legislature detailing progress towards this goal, starting in fiscal year 2027-2028. If DES fails to meet established targets, it must submit a corrective action plan, pay 50% of any federal liabilities due to excess error rates, and implement a corrective plan under the oversight of the auditor general, with potential funding reductions for non-compliance.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that a forensic audit must be completed by the auditor general by December 30, 2031, to identify factors contributing to the payment error rate and provide recommendations for improvement. DES is required to implement these recommendations within 12 months unless waived by the Joint Legislative Audit Committee. The act also allows for additional funding for program improvements if DES corrects the payment error rate ahead of schedule and includes a repeal date for the new provisions after December 31, 2032. The bill will be cited as the "Oh SNAP Act."

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 46-232