California Assembly Bill AB1377

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/19
• Refer: 3/14/19
• Report Pass: 4/3/19
• Refer: 4/4/19
• Report Pass: 4/22/19
• Refer: 4/23/19
• Report Pass: 4/23/19
• Report Pass: 4/25/19
• Refer: 4/25/19
• Refer: 5/15/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/23/19
• Refer: 5/24/19
• Refer: 6/6/19
• Report Pass: 6/6/19
• Report Pass: 6/25/19
• Refer: 6/25/19
• Refer: 7/8/19
• Report Pass: 8/30/19
• Enrolled: 9/10/19
• Chaptered: 10/2/19
• Passed: 10/2/19

Caption

CalFresh.

Impact

The introduction of this bill is expected to have a significant impact on state laws relating to nutrition assistance programs. By requiring the three departments to develop a streamlined approach for utilizing data from CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and school meal programs, AB 1377 aims to create a more efficient enrollment process. This could potentially increase the number of families benefiting from CalFresh, thereby enhancing food security among the most vulnerable populations in California, especially children and low-income families.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1377, authored by Wicks, focuses on improving enrollment in California's CalFresh program, which provides vital supplemental nutrition assistance to low-income residents. The bill mandates collaboration among the State Department of Education, the State Department of Health Care Services, and the State Department of Social Services, directing them to engage with stakeholders such as school nutrition representatives, county agencies, and food policy advocates. The goal is to streamline and enhance the process of accessing CalFresh benefits especially for families eligible for free or reduced-price school meals.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding AB 1377 appears to be positive, with strong support for initiatives aimed at increasing access to nutrition assistance. Advocates for low-income families and food security have expressed enthusiasm about the collaborative approach the bill promotes. However, concerns may arise over the implementation aspects, particularly regarding data sharing protocols and ensuring that the increased enrollment does not compromise personal information and confidentiality.

Contention

Notably, there may be contention regarding the methods used to facilitate data sharing between agencies, as different programs may have varying definitions and verification processes. The law also emphasizes research into past strategies aimed at similar goals, which adds a layer of accountability to address previously unmet challenges. Critics may worry that despite good intentions, the execution of this data-driven approach could face bureaucratic hurdles that limit its effectiveness in increasing CalFresh enrollment.