Bill promotes SNAP, increases asset limit

Senators passed a bill April 8 to promote the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

LB543, introduced by Omaha Sen. Tanya Cook, requires the state Department of Health and Human Services to develop a state outreach plan to inform qualifying persons about SNAP.

The department may work with nonprofit organizations to seek gifts, grants and donations to assist in implementing the plan and will be exempt from administering it if sufficient federal or private funds are not secured.

Under the bill, an individual who qualifies for SNAP benefits may have no more than $25,000 in liquid assets in personal checking or savings accounts, money market or share accounts.

LB543 passed on a 42-0 vote.