HI HB539

Expands SNAP eligibility in Hawaii from 200% to 300% of the federal poverty level for individuals and households who meet all other USDA program criteria

Creates state-funded benefits for households earning between 200-300% of the federal poverty level who do not qualify for federal SNAP assistance, while federally-eligible recipients continue receiving federal aid

Appropriates $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same amount for fiscal year 2026-2027 to the Department of Human Services to fund the expanded program

Addresses the "benefits cliff" where a household earning $69,000/year is ineligible for SNAP but needs over $100,000/year to meet basic needs in Hawaii, while a household earning $68,000 could receive over $9,000 in SNAP benefits

Takes effect July 1, 2025