HI HR31

Request the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization to conduct a study on increasing access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Study must include public policy options for addressing the SNAP benefits cliff created by income eligibility limits, with cost-benefit analysis of expanding eligibility to households at 300 percent above the federal poverty level.

Study must estimate the number of Hawaii residents below 300 percent federal poverty level who would become SNAP-eligible if income limits are expanded, and estimate currently eligible but unenrolled residents.

State departments including Department of Human Services, Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, and Department of Taxation are requested to provide data and information to support the study.

University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization must submit an interim preliminary report by twenty days prior to the 2025 Regular Session and a final report by twenty days prior to the 2026 Regular Session, including proposed legislation.