For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, California is set to enforce new rules for CalFresh recipients. Starting June 1, some users must work 20 hours a week or an average of 80 hours a month to keep their benefits. If they don’t meet these requirements, their food assistance could shrink significantly.
About 5.5 million people in California rely on CalFresh, including over 100,000 in Alameda County. Since 2020, the state had exemptions from certain federal work requirements due to the pandemic. However, recent federal legislation known as H.R. 1 has changed this, limiting California’s ability to waive these rules. Now, more people—including those up to 64 years old and parents with older children—will be affected.
Andrew Cheyne, managing director at the County Welfare Directors Association, expressed concerns about the harshness of these new guidelines. He mentioned that similar changes in other states have led to significant drops in SNAP participants, not because people no longer need help, but due to the complicated process created by the new rules.
Trent Rhorer, executive director of the San Francisco Human Services Agency, noted that about 112,000 people in San Francisco receive CalFresh. Of these, about 18%, or roughly 19,300 people, might now have to comply with the new work requirements. His agency aims to inform those affected through community outreach.
The new work policies primarily target individuals aged 18 to 64 who don’t live with children under 14. If they don’t meet the work requirements, their benefits could be reduced to only three months in a three-year period. Current recipients will only be subject to these rules when they recertify their benefits.
To fulfill the new requirements, individuals may engage in various activities such as:
- Working a job
- Volunteering
- Job training programs
- Attending school less than half-time
Exemptions are available for certain groups, including:
- Those under 18 or over 64
- Pregnant individuals
- People with disabilities
- Caregivers for someone with a disability
Interestingly, some California counties, particularly those with high unemployment rates, remain exempt from these work guidelines. However, none of the Bay Area counties are included.
The upcoming changes are concerning to many as they may leave vulnerable populations without critical access to food assistance. Experts stress the importance of investing in support services to help navigate these new regulations.
As Cheyne pointed out, “Safety net supports should be unconditional.” The key takeaway is that these changes will add to the challenges many face just to put food on their tables.
For those seeking more information or needing assistance, it’s recommended to check with local agencies or visit the CalFresh website. This is particularly vital as many could experience difficulties during the transition to the new requirements.
For more details, you can explore the CalFresh website or call their support line at 1-877-847-3663.
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