Sponsors (36)
The bill increases low-income students' awareness and access to SNAP through standardized outreach and better interagency coordination, at the cost of modest federal administrative burden, possible extra/unwanted communications to students, and potential increased strain on state SNAP agencies.
Students with a zero or negative student aid index will receive clear, standardized notice that they may qualify for SNAP, including how to apply and the contact information for their State SNAP agency—making it easier for low-income students to learn about and access benefits.
Improved interagency coordination (Education consulting Agriculture and others) should increase the accuracy and consistency of outreach materials, reducing confusion and helping state agencies and schools align messaging.
State SNAP agencies may face increased inquiries and caseloads from outreach, potentially straining state resources and delaying service for low-income applicants.
The Department of Education will incur additional administrative work and modest costs each award year to produce and send the required materials, funded by taxpayers and borne by federal staff workloads.
Students may receive extra mail or email communications about SNAP that some could view as unwanted contact or that could contribute to information overload.
Based on analysis of 3 sections of legislative text.
Requires the Dept. of Education to notify FAFSA filers with zero or negative SAI about SNAP eligibility, the application process, and state SNAP contacts.
Official title: To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require the Secretary of Education to send to certain students who submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid information regarding potential eligibility for assistance under the supplemental nutrition assistance program under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, and for other purposes.
Introduced January 28, 2025 by Jahana Hayes · Last progress January 28, 2025
Requires the Department of Education to send written and electronic notices to students who file the FAFSA and have a zero or negative Student Aid Index (SAI), informing them that they may be eligible for SNAP benefits, explaining how to apply, and giving contact information for their State SNAP agency. The Department must consult with USDA and other relevant agencies when designing the communications. The requirement takes effect 120 days after enactment.