CalWORKs and CalFresh: Hunger Impact Act of 2018.
The enactment of AB 2297 is anticipated to significantly improve the financial support available to low-income families, particularly those confronting special dietary requirements. By raising the monthly allowance for special needs and introducing CalHIP, the legislation aims to contribute to addressing food insecurity and enhancing the purchasing power of families affected by poverty. Importantly, the program is designed to operate without being classified as income, thereby not influencing eligibility for other state or local assistance programs. This approach represents a shift towards more responsive welfare policies that are tailored to the specific challenges faced by struggling households.
Assembly Bill 2297, titled the Hunger Impact Act of 2018, seeks to amend the existing provisions under the Welfare and Institutions Code related to public social services. Primarily, it aims to address the nutritional needs of families reliant on government assistance by increasing the monthly allowance for special dietary needs from $10 to $15, and establishing a new program called the CalFresh Hunger Impact Program (CalHIP), which provides an additional $28 per month to each CalFresh household. The bill emphasizes enhancing food support for vulnerable populations and intends to provide greater financial aid for special dietary needs that may arise from health requirements.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding AB 2297 appears to be supportive, particularly among social service advocates and legislators concerned with hunger and food insecurity. Proponents argue that the legislation provides a necessary response to the growing issue of food shortages among the lower-income demographics, especially children and families. However, there may be some contention regarding the increased administrative burdens that counties may face in implementing these new benefits and whether adequate funding mechanisms will be established to support local agencies tasked with administering the programs.
A critical point of contention is the potential for increased administrative duties placed on counties that will administer these new benefits, especially as the law requires implementation commencing by October 2019. Local governments have raised concerns about the need for additional resources and funding to handle the expanded requirements and ensure efficient delivery of services. Furthermore, while the bill seeks to enhance aid, the lack of a continuous appropriation for its implementation may lead to funding uncertainties, further complicating the execution of these support structures.