Elimination of SNAP eligibility sunset date advanced

Lawmakers gave first-round approval April 2 to a bill that would eliminate a scheduled sunset date on expanded eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

Income eligibility guidelines for SNAP were expanded in 2021 from 130% of the federal poverty level to 165%. That expansion is scheduled to expire Oct. 1, 2025. LB192, introduced by Grand Island Sen. Dan Quick, would eliminate the sunset date and retain the current income eligibility level.

Quick said the bill would help stimulate the state’s economy and lessen the “cliff effect” that occurs when an increase in income results in a sudden loss of eligibility and benefits. He said an estimated $12 million in SNAP benefits are spent annually in the local economy.

Without action on the scheduled change in income eligibility, he said, over 10,000 Nebraskans — including seniors, people with disabilities, children and caretakers — would lose access to food benefits.

“It makes sense to pass LB192 to not only support working Nebraskans trying to get ahead, but to stimulate the economy by shrinking the cliff effect and injecting millions into local businesses and producers,” Quick said.

Speaking in support, Bellevue Sen. Victor Rountree said the bill would provide “tremendous” support to individuals experiencing food insecurity in the state.

“With all the riches that we have in our country, and as blessed as we are, there should not be anyone in our country that is hungry,” he said. “We [must] always take the opportunity to … support those who may not be able to support themselves.”

Senators voted 33-0 to advance LB192 to select file.