The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a vital safety net that helps Hawai‘i households access basic nutrition and combat food insecurity. However, many individuals and families who struggle with food costs fall outside strict eligibility criteria, while those who do face barriers like long wait times, application errors and limited staff support. Addressing these challenges is essential to covering all families considered Asset-Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed (ALICE).
Strengthen SNAP access and keep Hawaiʻi households fed!
Each state legislative session, we keep a close eye on bills aimed at improving access to SNAP in the following ways:
Expanding Eligibility: Proposals to raise SNAP eligibility threshold and restore previous benefit standards.
Enhancing Accessibility: Efforts to simplify the process, like reducing administrative hurdles and extending certification periods to make it easier for specific groups.
Addressing Staffing Challenges: Initiatives to improve staffing and streamline SNAP support services during the application process, ensuring timely assistance for those who need it most.
For the upcoming 2026 legislative session, HHAN plans to build off of the momentum from last year, focusing on these key areas ↓
EXPANDING ELIGIBILITY
Expand SNAP eligibility to those who fall under 300% of the Federal Poverty Level
ENHANCING ACCESSIBILITY
Require participation in the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP), which would make it easier for kūpuna to apply and recertify for SNAP.
Implement a prerelease waiver, allowing eligible incarcerated individuals to apply for SNAP benefits before release.
Other Resources:
In the News
It’s not only making it harder for families to put food on their tables. It’s also affecting people’s livelihoods.