Arkansas Advocate : Arkansas Senate approves proposal to increase food stamp asset limit

The Arkansas Senate has approved a legislative proposal that would raise the asset limit for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients. The legislation is designed to help individuals and families who are struggling to make ends meet and to expand access to the program for those in need.

Under current regulations, SNAP recipients are limited to an asset limit of $2,250 in order to qualify for the program. This amount includes cash, bank accounts, vehicles, and other assets. The proposed legislation would more than double the asset limit, raising it to $5,000.

Proponents of the bill highlighted the fact that the asset limit has not been increased since 1996, making it increasingly difficult for low-income households to access the program. It was noted that many individuals and families have assets that exceed the current limit, but still have difficulty affording basic necessities.

Senators supporting the bill argued that raising the asset limit would allow more people to benefit from the program and would provide a much-needed boost to struggling households. It was also argued that increasing the asset limit would help reduce food insecurity and promote economic stability among low-income households.

The legislation was approved by a vote of 28-3. It will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration. If approved by the House, the bill would then go to the Governor’s desk for signature.

If enacted, the proposal would increase the asset limit for SNAP recipients from $2,250 to $5,000, enabling more individuals and families who are in need of assistance to access the program.