This bill proposes a supplemental appropriation of $175 million from the General Fund to the Department of Human Services (DHS) for the fiscal year 2026, specifically allocated for Emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Replacement Benefits. The funds will be utilized by the Division of Family Development to provide monthly replacement benefits to eligible SNAP households during any month in the fiscal year, ensuring that the total benefits received by these households match their most recently certified federal SNAP monthly benefit. The bill outlines that these replacement benefits will be distributed using the SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer system and must be used solely for food purchases, adhering to existing state rules and procedures.

The need for this appropriation arises from a pause in federal funding for SNAP benefits due to a government shutdown in November 2025, which has created uncertainty for approximately 800,000 New Jersey residents who rely on these benefits. The bill mandates that the Division of Family Development submit a request to the United States Department of Agriculture for reimbursement of the state funds expended under this program by June 30, 2026. This legislative action aims to ensure that low-income families continue to receive necessary food assistance during the fiscal year despite the interruption in federal funding.