House Bill 902, introduced in the Montana Legislature on March 28, 2025, aims to reform the state's supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) by adjusting benefit levels based on household income. The bill proposes a tiered system where beneficiaries with monthly household incomes at or below 138% of the federal poverty level would receive 100% of their monthly benefits. As income increases, the benefit percentage decreases, with those earning between 138% and 200% of the federal poverty level receiving progressively lower amounts, down to 20% for those at the upper limit.

Key provisions of the bill include a requirement for beneficiaries to comply with existing work requirements under SNAP, ensuring that assistance is tied to employment efforts. The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services is tasked with adopting rules to implement these changes effectively.

The bill has sparked notable debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the tiered system will better allocate resources and encourage self-sufficiency among recipients. Critics, however, express concern that reducing benefits for those just above the poverty line could lead to increased food insecurity for vulnerable families.

Economically, the bill could have significant implications for low-income households in Montana, potentially affecting their access to essential nutrition. Socially, it raises questions about the balance between providing support and incentivizing work, a topic that often divides public opinion.

As the legislative process unfolds, experts suggest that the bill's success will depend on public response and the ability of lawmakers to address concerns raised during discussions. If passed, House Bill 902 could reshape the landscape of food assistance in Montana, impacting thousands of families reliant on these crucial benefits.