CalWORKs: special diet and food preparation allowance.
If passed, the bill would directly impact the CalWORKs funding allocation and management, requiring counties to provide a supplemental food benefit starting December 1, 2023, or once the Statewide Automated Welfare System is ready. The bill clarifies that the allowance will not count as income when determining recipient eligibility for state and local benefits, thus protecting families' access to essential services and benefits. It also could impose increased administrative duties on local counties tasked with implementing these changes.
Assembly Bill 987 aims to amend California's welfare regulations under the CalWORKs program by expanding the special needs allowance to include food preparation needs alongside special dietary requirements for eligible families. Currently, families receive a maximum of $10 per month for special dietary needs based on a physician's recommendation. AB 987 proposes to support dietary preparation when prescribed by a physician and establishes additional allowances to accommodate families facing extraordinary circumstances, such as verified lack of access to potable water or children with elevated lead levels, that may hinder their ability to obtain or prepare food.
The sentiment around AB 987 generally reflects a supportive attitude from advocates for low-income families and health professionals who see it as a critical improvement to food security and access to basic needs. However, there could be concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on counties and the funding implications of the expanded allowances, which may prompt debates among policymakers regarding fiscal responsibility and program management.
Notable points of contention include debates on the appropriateness of not requiring physician recommendations for special diet allowances in cases of verified water access issues. Critics may argue that this could lead to misuse or misallocation of funds unless adequately monitored. Additionally, there may be concerns about how counties will balance the new requirements with existing budget constraints and administrative capacities, particularly in light of California's ongoing challenges with public assistance programs.