This bill amends section 68-1017.02 of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, concerning the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Nebraska. A significant change is the removal of a sunset date, which allows for the continued implementation of the provisions without a predetermined expiration. The bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services to maximize the number of residents served under SNAP, seek federal funding, and minimize the use of General Funds. It also requires the department to submit an annual report to the Health and Human Services Committee detailing efforts to enhance program access and effectiveness.

Additionally, the bill introduces a TANF-funded program that establishes categorical eligibility for federal food assistance benefits, increasing the gross income eligibility limit to 165% of the federal poverty guidelines while eliminating asset limits for eligibility, except for liquid assets not exceeding $25,000. The bill also opts out of certain federal provisions that restrict SNAP eligibility for individuals with felony convictions, allowing those with one or two convictions to receive benefits if they participate in or complete a substance abuse treatment program. The original section 68-1017.02 is repealed, consolidating the updated provisions into the amended statute.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 68-1017.02