As introduced: This bill would increase the gross income limit in the food stamp program to 185% of the federal poverty level (FPL) while keeping the net income limit at 100% of FPL. This would allow families with high expenses for things like child care to continue to qualify for the food stamp program.
Introducing Senator(s): Nordquist, Cook, Mello
Committee: Health and Human Services Committee
Committee Hearing Date: February 15, 2012
Current Status: Indefinitely Postponed.
Estimated Fiscal Impact: The estimated cost would be $1,875,045 ($1,012,524 GF and $862,521 FF) annually
Voices for Children Position: Support
Voices for Children supported this bill due to its potential to address the “cliff effect” in food stamps, where a small increase in earnings results in a significant reduction in benefits. This moves the gross income limit closer to self-sufficiency levels and allows families with high expenses related to things like child care to qualify for the food stamp program.
Research:
Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
