FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM ASSET TEST                                                        S.B. 35:

                                                                                                    SUMMARY OF BILL

                                                                                     REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE

Senate Bill 35 (as reported without amendment)

Sponsor:  Senator Jeff Irwin

Committee:  Housing and Human Services

CONTENT

The bill would amend the Social Welfare Act to delete a requirement that the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) apply an asset test to determine financial eligibility for the Food Assistance Program (FAP).

MCL 400.10d

BRIEF RATIONALE

Currently, Michigan FAP applicants are required to meet Federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program requirements and are subject to a $15,000 asset check to receive the Program benefits. Some claim that the asset test requires households that need food assistance but are over the asset limit to deplete their savings to qualify for benefits and it has been suggested that the asset test requirement be removed.

                                                                                Legislative Analyst:  Eleni Lionas

FISCAL IMPACT

The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.

Date Completed:  3-1-23                                                 Fiscal Analyst:  John P. Maxwell

This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.