CARSON CITY – More than 46,000 Nevadans on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) would be affected by a proposed rule change announced by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Nutrition Services program.
This proposed rule will eliminate the Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) policy and impose a financial asset test on SNAP applicants that were approved under BBCE.
Based on information from the USDA, the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services is estimating an approximate 11% reduction in those who qualify for SNAP under the BBCE policy, which represents approximately 46,000 people, from a total caseload of approximately 419,350.
This reduction is achieved through a tightening of eligibility rules and reverting to pre-2009 eligibility criteria.
“This proposal will negatively impact families all across our state,” said Governor Steve Sisolak. “Food insecurity is common in many Nevada households, and the benefits provided by the SNAP program assist families in buying healthy foods and stretching their food dollars.”
In addition to impacting residents who count on the program for their food security, this proposal by the federal government will also translate to an approximate decrease of more than $9 million per month for the Nevada economy.
Public comment will be accepted on this proposed rule until Sept. 23, through https://www.regulations.gov/ by searching for “Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.”
