Federal approval could exempt some college students from SNAP work rule

The Department of Human Services would let covered students qualify for SNAP food aid without meeting the 20-hour weekly student work rule. This applies to college students who receive a New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund award, which helps students with financial need pay for college. Federal food aid officials must approve the change and waive the work rule before this provision can operate. If enacted, the act would take effect immediately, but this provision would wait for federal approval.

The human services commissioner would request federal approval, and the department would tell students about the rule after approval. The request concerns Educational Opportunity Fund award recipients; the information campaign would reach high school seniors and college students. The department would start its information campaign only after receiving the needed federal approvals and waivers. The commissioner would apply within 90 days after the act takes effect; the act would take effect immediately if enacted.