The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, signed into law by President Joe Biden in June, brings significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). One notable change that has already been implemented is the adjustment to the age limit for “able-bodied adults without dependents” (ABAWDs). Previously, individuals aged 18 to 49 were required to demonstrate either 80 hours of work per month or enrollment in a training program to qualify for SNAP benefits. Now, with the new legislation in effect, this age limit has been raised to 50 years old.
The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), as part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) outlines a gradual increase in the ABAWD time limit age as part of the Fiscal Responsibility Act. On October 1, 2023, the age limit will rise to 52, and by October 1, 2024, it will further increase to 54. It’s important to note that these age and exemption adjustments are temporary measures and are set to remain in effect until October 1, 2030. Alongside these age changes, the legislation also provides guidance on defining exempt populations and amends requirements for disclosing information to the public, as well as revisiting the food stamps‘ purpose statement.
Two More Changes Coming to the SNAP Program
In a USDA statement released on June 9, the Food and Resource Action (FRA) introduces a significant change regarding transparency. Under Section 314, known as Waiver Transparency, the FRA mandates that the USDA must now publicly disclose state waiver requests and the agency’s approvals. This disclosure requirement entails making state requests to waive the ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) time limit and related agency waiver approvals accessible to the public within 30 days after the date of enactment.
Additionally, the FRA brings about a revised purpose statement for the SNAP program, formerly known as the food stamp program. The updated purpose statement now emphasizes SNAP’s role in assisting low-income adults in securing employment and increasing their earnings. This employment and income growth, in conjunction with program benefits, enables low-income households to enhance their access to a more nutritious diet through regular food purchasing channels, ultimately boosting food purchasing power for all eligible households who seek participation.
SNAP Program to Set Exemptions For These Particular Groups
The USDA introduced some other changes to the food stamps program, particularly for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). Under the new regulations effective from October 1, state agencies administering SNAP benefits will face stricter limitations on granting exemptions to ABAWDs from work requirements. Previously, state agencies could grant discretionary exemptions for up to 12% of the ABAWD caseload, but this limit will now decrease to 8%. Additionally, states will no longer be allowed to carry over unused discretionary exemptions for more than one year.
However, amidst these changes, the USDA has expanded exemptions to include certain vulnerable groups. Homeless individuals, veterans, and young adults aged 18 to 24 who have aged out of foster care will be exempt from ABAWD work requirements and time limits. Furthermore, individuals unable to work due to physical or mental limitations, pregnancy, or having dependents under 18 in their household remain exempt.
The USDA has provided clear criteria for defining these exempt populations, ensuring that those who genuinely require assistance receive the necessary support. These changes aim to strike a balance between encouraging self-sufficiency and safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable individuals in the SNAP program.