HI HCR146

Request the Department of Human Services to apply for and implement the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) when capable in Hawaii.

ESAP is a federal demonstration project designed to increase SNAP enrollment among low-income adults ages 60 and older by removing barriers to participation.

ESAP simplifies the application and certification processes, waives recertification interviews, allows flexible verification, and extends certification periods to 36 months.

Direct the Department of Human Services to seek necessary federal approvals, waivers, and amend rules, policies, and procedures as needed to implement ESAP in Hawaii.

Hawaii currently does not participate in ESAP; implementing the program could improve food security and health outcomes for low-income seniors in the state.