This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing two new sections, 9-8-2a and 9-8-2b, which expand the employment and training requirements for individuals receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. It mandates that able-bodied adults without dependents, aged 18 to 59, participate in an employment and training program unless they meet specific exemptions, such as being a parent of a young child, a student, or employed for a minimum number of hours. The bill also allows the Department of Human Services to create additional non-federal exemptions based on individual challenges and requires the department to provide registrants with a comprehensive list of available services within 15 working days of registration. Furthermore, if funding is insufficient for mandatory participation, the Secretary must report to the Legislature detailing the situation and outlining potential solutions.

Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for a voluntary SNAP employment and training program, requiring annual reports to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability from October 31, 2025, to October 31, 2028. These reports will include various metrics related to program participation, outcomes, and progress towards specific goals, such as increasing employment retention rates and recruiting new third-party partners. The bill emphasizes the importance of accountability and continuous improvement in the SNAP E&T program while allowing for flexibility in expanding mandatory policies as needed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-8-2a, 9-8-2b