In Pennsylvania, we distribute Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through schedules based on the county in which the applicant resides, rather than a uniform statewide schedule. This may create financial hardship for individuals moving from one county to another, such as Dauphin County to Blair County. These schedules may potentially cause delays in receiving benefits and put a strain on SNAP beneficiaries’ finances, especially as grocery prices continue to rise.

To address this issue, I will introduce legislation that directs the Department of Human Services (DHS) to conduct a study of Pennsylvania’s SNAP payment distribution schedules by analyzing caseloads, U.S. Census data, other states that issue payments over more than 10 days, and further direct DHS to develop SNAP payment schedules that work effectively and efficiently for all Pennsylvanians. By beginning to study this issue and continuing to do so every five years, we may ensure that SNAP is the most effective for Pennsylvanians – especially if they move to another county – and provide more transparency about one of Pennsylvania’s most vital programs and its implementation.

Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation so that we may learn more about how best to allocate SNAP payments in Pennsylvania and ensure Pennsylvanians can afford nutritious food.