The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), popularly referred to as CalFresh in California is on the verge of some very significant reforms that will allow more people – millions of residents in California to be part of the already existing food assistance benefits. In the latest news, Governor Gavin Newsom, approved Assembly Bill 3229 which changes the status quo on food insecurity for children and families in California, particularly low – income families.
What is AB 3229 and how does it affect CalFresh?
AB 3229 is designed to make the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Pilot Project a permanent program. This initiative allows eligible participants to receive an additional dollar for every dollar spent on fresh fruits and vegetables using their EBT cards. In a report by Newsweek, California Assembly member Alex Lee, who spearheaded the legislation, emphasized the importance of this new initiative saying, “AB 3229 will ensure a long-term solution to making the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable Pilot a permanent program so that CalFresh recipients can continue to benefit from supplemental benefits.”
By converting the pilot project into a permanent program, California aims to provide a sustainable source of support for families that have faced cuts in their CalFresh benefits since the COVID-19 federal aid ended.
Who qualifies for the expanded CalFresh benefits?
CalFresh serves nearly 5 million residents in California, and the recent changes under AB 3229 will open the door for even more individuals to access food stamps. If you are a low-income household facing food insecurity, you may qualify. The specific income limits can vary based on family size, but generally, households with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level are eligible.
The expansion is especially critical now, as many families continue to struggle with rising food costs and economic instability. As noted in a report by Newsweek, Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor, noted, “This is great news for those who qualify, as not only does it equate to a continuation of a program that is needed for low-income families, but it’s also one that promotes healthier food options.”
How will the CalFresh fruit and vegetable program work?
Under AB 3229, the state will conduct an evaluation of the pilot program, and a report will be submitted to the legislature outlining the steps to transition it into a permanent offering. This means that, going forward, you can expect to see a more structured system for accessing these supplemental benefits.
Previously, the pilot project helped over 7,200 households in Santa Clara County alone, providing them with an extra $460,000 to spend on healthy food. With more grocery stores and farmers’ markets participating, beneficiaries will have a wider array of options to choose from when purchasing nutritious foods.
Why is this change important for Californians?
Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in California. According to the UCLA Centre for Health Policy Research, more than a third of the adult population in California with an income below the 200% of the federal government poverty level said they could not afford enough food. Angelica Diaz, the Healthy Communities branch director at the County of Santa Clara Public Health Department, highlighted the program’s importance: “This bill will improve the health and well-being of people in Santa Clara County and across the state by increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables.”
Additionally, addressing food insecurity not only improves health outcomes but can also reduce long-term healthcare costs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have estimated that food insecurity costs California over $7 billion annually in healthcare expenses.
What can you expect next?
The passage of AB 3229 is only the tip of the iceberg, more like a step in the right direction. Many are seeing the positive outlook on what low-income families across California stand to gain as the state looks into the best way to make these changes. The plan will not only promote healthy eating but will also encourage the local farmers as it will create a market for fresh fruits and vegetables.
Following the expected changes that come with AB 3229, you will have more healthier choices. The aim of this program is to make a difference in the ability of vulnerable groups to achieve food security.
In a state where food insecurity is already a big issue, it can be said that AB 3229 is quite an intervention. It is a good indicator that the government is concerned about food access and works on ensuring that nutritious food is available to all Californians.
