Relating to eligibility for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits.

SB 639 would change Texas SNAP (food stamp) eligibility rules by requiring that most applicants remain eligible for 12 months after initial approval or recertification, unless specific exceptions apply. It also mandates annual inflation adjustments to resource limits used in determining SNAP eligibility, using the Consumer Price Index, starting October 1 each year. The bill exempts certain groups, including individuals expecting eligibility loss within six months, seniors/disabled individuals with no income in similar households, or young adults without dependents or disabilities. These changes would directly affect SNAP applicants and recipients in Texas who qualify under the new rules. The bill is currently pending in the Health & Human Services committee.