Public assistance; categorical eligibility for food assistance prohibited; Department of Human Resources prohibited from applying higher gross income standards for food assistance than required by federal law

SB 246 would change how Alabama determines eligibility for food assistance programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The bill prohibits the State Department of Human Resources from granting categorical eligibility for SNAP benefits, except where federal law mandates it. Additionally, it prevents the department from applying gross income standards for food assistance that are higher than those specified by federal law. These provisions aim to align Alabama's SNAP eligibility criteria more closely with federal requirements, affecting households applying for or receiving these benefits.