Closing the College Hunger Gap ActThis bill requires the Department of Education (ED) to send information regarding potential eligibility for assistance under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to certain college students.Specifically, ED must send this information, in both written and electronic form, to a student who submits the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and has a negative or zero student aid index for the year. ED must also provide the student with contact information for the state agency that administers SNAP in the state in which the student resides.ED must consult with the Department of Agriculture and other applicable federal or state agencies to design the written and electronic communications regarding potential SNAP eligibility and the SNAP application process.
If enacted, this bill would result in significant changes to how information about available nutritional assistance programs is disseminated to students in higher education. By requiring the Secretary of Education to provide written and electronic communication regarding SNAP eligibility, the act could increase awareness and access to these vital resources for students who may not be aware of their benefits or the application process. This proactive outreach aims to reduce food insecurity among students, enabling them to focus on their studies without the hindrance of hunger.
House Bill 777, known as the 'Closing the College Hunger Gap Act', seeks to address food insecurity among college students by mandating that the Secretary of Education inform students who submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) about their potential eligibility for benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This legislation recognizes the increasing number of students attending higher education institutions who face hunger and food insecurity, reinforcing the need for federal support and guidance in navigating available assistance programs.
While supporters of HB777 argue that it addresses a critical need within the collegiate community, opponents may raise questions about the effectiveness of such initiatives if they do not also include broader financial support systems or if the resources provided are insufficient to meet the needs of all eligible students. There may also be concerns regarding the administrative logistics of implementing these requirements and ensuring that all eligible students receive the necessary information in a timely manner.