Maryland Senate Bill SB722

Maryland 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 1/31/24

Caption

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - Seniors - State Supplement

Impact

The implementation of SB722 is expected to positively affect low-income senior citizens in Maryland, who often face higher risks of food insecurity. By increasing the minimum benefit to $75, the bill aims to alleviate some of the burdens these individuals experience while accessing adequate nutrition. This adjustment will likely also resonate with advocates of senior welfare, as they emphasize the importance of providing adequate nutrition for older adults to promote their health and well-being.

Summary

Senate Bill 722, titled 'Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Seniors – State Supplement', aims to enhance support for elderly beneficiaries of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Maryland. Specifically, the bill mandates that if a household contains an individual aged 62 or older who receives federal benefits amounting to less than $75 per month, the state must provide a supplement to ensure that the total benefit reaches a floor of $75. This change seeks to improve food security among seniors who may be struggling to make ends meet.

Contention

Although SB722 addresses a critical need, potential points of contention include the financial implications for the state's budget to accommodate these increased supplements. Legislators may debate the sustainability of funding such supplements as the state seeks to balance its budget while providing vital support services. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the efficacy of the SNAP program and whether the proposed changes sufficiently address the complexities of food insecurity among the elderly population.