This bill mandates that the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) allow students who receive awards from the New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund to access nutrition assistance benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) without having to meet the typical 20-hour weekly work requirement set by federal law. The Educational Opportunity Fund is designed to provide financial assistance to needy students pursuing higher education. However, the implementation of this exemption is contingent upon approval and a waiver from the federal Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), which must be secured by the Commissioner of Human Services within 90 days of the bill's effective date.

Once the necessary federal approvals are obtained, the DHS is required to enforce the new SNAP eligibility criteria for Educational Opportunity Fund recipients and to conduct a public awareness campaign to inform eligible students about these changes. The bill emphasizes compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations during its implementation.