The bill aims to modify the eligibility criteria for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by prohibiting the use of categorical eligibility based on participation in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Specifically, it establishes that the health care authority cannot designate any noncash benefits as qualifying for SNAP eligibility, except for households receiving cash assistance, Social Security benefits, or general assistance benefits. Additionally, the bill ensures that SNAP benefits or resources cannot be excluded solely based on their exclusion in TANF or Medicaid programs unless mandated by federal law.

Furthermore, the bill allows the authority to adopt eligibility policies for SNAP only as required by federal law, ensuring that these policies do not eliminate the asset limit or expand income standards beyond federal maximums. The authority is tasked with creating the necessary rules to implement these changes by April 1, 2027, with the provisions of the act set to take effect on January 1, 2027.