New York Senate Bill S08347

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/4/25
• Refer: 6/4/25

Caption

Establishes the "SNAP for students act" requiring the office of temporary and disability assistance to create informational materials to provide information regarding student eligibility for SNAP benefits and to provide digital versions of such materials to institutions of higher education in the state; requires institutions of higher education to notify students of their potential eligibility for SNAP benefits.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will amend the social services law in New York by introducing a new section dedicated to the dissemination of SNAP information specifically tailored for students. It will require institutions of higher education to engage in annual outreach efforts, thereby fostering a greater awareness of food assistance programs and potentially increasing participation in SNAP among eligible students. The annual reports generated will help evaluate the effectiveness of these outreach efforts, providing essential data on applications, eligibility determinations, and benefit distribution.

Summary

Bill S08347, titled the 'SNAP for Students Act,' aims to address food insecurity among college students in New York by requiring the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to develop and distribute informational materials regarding student eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The act mandates that educational institutions inform their students about their potential eligibility, ensuring that individuals enrolled at least half-time in higher education are made aware of available assistance.

Conclusion

Overall, S08347 seeks to create a structured approach to inform students about vital food assistance programs, addressing a significant social issue within higher education. The successful implementation of this act could pave the way for other measures that promote economic well-being for students in New York, ultimately enhancing their educational experiences and outcomes.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding this bill may include concerns over accessibility and the adequacy of outreach strategies. Critics might argue that merely providing information is not sufficient if students are still unable to navigate the application process or if there are barriers to accessing benefits. Supporters, however, advocate for the bill as a necessary step to combat rising food insecurity levels among students, particularly in light of increasing tuition costs and living expenses.