The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 497 aims to improve food security for veterans and vulnerable populations in response to potential federal cuts to nutritional assistance programs. Effective July 1, 2026, the bill establishes a "supplemental nutrition assistance transitional benefit account," funded by a $40 million transfer from the Federal Cuts Response Fund. It also repeals and replaces existing statutes to empower the Commissioner of Social Services to seek waivers from federal work requirements for individuals in high-unemployment areas, implement vehicle evaluation provisions, and establish a standard utility allowance for calculating benefits. Importantly, the bill ensures that veterans receive the same level of supplemental nutrition assistance benefits they would have received prior to any changes in federal work requirements.

Additionally, the bill introduces a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Transitional Benefit Program for individuals at risk of losing assistance due to federal changes, providing monthly benefits, job training, and case management. It also includes a "food as medicine" pilot program for Medicaid beneficiaries with chronic health conditions, allowing them to receive produce prescriptions and nutritional counseling. The legislation modifies eligibility criteria for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by allowing individuals with felony convictions related to controlled substances to qualify for benefits after completing their sentences. Furthermore, it simplifies SNAP administration by aligning application processes with federal regulations and establishes a framework for the Commissioner to set maximum allowable rates for home and community-based services, ensuring fair compensation for providers through annual adjustments based on the cost of living.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: