New Jersey Assembly Bill A2958

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Chaptered: 1/9/24
• Passed: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires Commissioner of Human Services to request authorization for SNAP benefits to be used to pay delivery charges for online grocery purchases.

Impact

Currently, SNAP funds cannot be used to cover delivery fees under USDA regulations. By facilitating this use, the bill would aim to improve the purchasing options for low-income families, particularly in light of the convenience that online grocery shopping provides. This change is significant in a post-pandemic landscape where many consumers have shifted to online shopping for groceries due to safety considerations. If enacted, this legislation could alter how SNAP beneficiaries access and purchase essential goods.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2958 requires the Commissioner of Human Services in New Jersey to request permission from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to be used for paying delivery charges associated with online grocery purchases. The bill aims to enhance the accessibility of food resources for SNAP beneficiaries, enabling them to utilize their benefits more efficiently, especially given the increasing trend towards online shopping for groceries.

Contention

While the intention behind A2958 is to provide better support for low-income households, there could be potential contention regarding the implications of utilizing federal SNAP funds for delivery fees. Critics may argue that this could set a precedent for additional cost burdens on the program. Conversely, supporters may highlight the necessity of adapting SNAP to fit modern consumer behaviors and the challenges faced by low-income families in accessing grocery stores, particularly when transportation options are limited.