Sponsors (33)
The bill improves low-income students' access to information and assistance for SNAP by requiring targeted outreach and interagency coordination, at the cost of modest federal administrative expense, potential information overload for students, and possible increased strain on state SNAP agencies.
Students with a zero or negative student aid index (low-income students) will receive clear information about potential SNAP eligibility and how to apply, increasing access to nutrition assistance.
Students will get direct contact information for their State SNAP agency, making it easier for them to apply locally and connect with benefits administrators.
Requiring the Department of Education to consult Agriculture and other agencies should improve interagency coordination and the accuracy/consistency of outreach materials.
State SNAP agencies may face increased inquiries and caseloads from outreach, potentially straining state resources and impacting service delivery for low-income applicants.
The Department of Education will incur added administrative burden and modest costs each award year to produce and send outreach materials, funded by taxpayers and handled by federal staff.
Students may receive additional mail or email communications they view as unwanted, risking information overload or privacy/communication concerns.
Based on analysis of 3 sections of legislative text.
Requires the Education Department to notify FAFSA filers with zero/negative student aid index about potential SNAP eligibility, how to apply, and state agency contacts.
Introduced January 28, 2025 by Jahana Hayes · Last progress January 28, 2025
Requires the U.S. Department of Education to send written and electronic notices to students who file the FAFSA and have a zero or negative student aid index, explaining that they may qualify for SNAP (food assistance), describing how to apply, and providing contact information for the State SNAP agency. The Department must consult with the Department of Agriculture and any other relevant federal or state agencies when designing those communications; the rule takes effect 120 days after enactment.