CA SB1201

Requires the California Department of Social Services to request a federal waiver by April 1, 2027, to exclude veteran job search costs from countable income when determining CalFresh (food assistance) eligibility and benefit levels

Seeks federal waiver to exempt certain veterans from CalFresh time limits and work requirements, including veterans discharged less than one year, veterans with children, veterans with pending VA disability claims, and homeless veterans

Mandates counties provide all veterans applying for CalFresh benefits with referrals to veterans' assistance and job training agencies, regardless of whether they are exempt from the CalFresh Employment and Training program

Responds to federal cuts to SNAP benefits enacted through Public Law 119-21, which the Legislature declares harmed veterans and their families

Requires approved waivers to be implemented within 6 months of federal approval; state would reimburse counties for any mandated costs