Elimination of SNAP eligibility sunset date approved

A bill relating to eligibility and work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program was given final approval May 28.

Income eligibility guidelines for SNAP were expanded in 2021 from 130% of the federal poverty level to 165%. That expansion was scheduled to expire Oct. 1. LB192, sponsored by Grand Island Sen. Dan Quick, eliminates the sunset date and retains the current income eligibility level.

The measure also includes provisions of LB656, sponsored by Omaha Sen. Bob Andersen, which prohibits the state Department of Health and Human Services from seeking, applying or renewing a work requirement waiver for SNAP benefits unless expressly required to do so by federal law.

DHHS also could require all eligible SNAP recipients to participate in the employment and training program at the department’s discretion.

LB192 passed on a 41-8 vote.