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Committee backs measures to extend SNAP recertification periods to reduce churn for kupuna and remote communities
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Summary
SB3245 would require DHS to apply for federal waivers to extend SNAP recertification to the federal maximum and reduce churn; the committee recorded strong support from Hawaii Hunger Action Network, public‑health groups and legal advocates citing new federal work requirements and administrative burdens on seniors.
The House Finance Committee heard broad support for SB3245 SD1 HD1, a bill directing the state Department of Human Services to seek federal waivers to extend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recertification windows to federal maximums.
Testimony from Hawaii Hunger Action Network, Hawaii Public Health Institute and Hawaii Appleseed emphasized that shorter recertification periods impose administrative burdens that particularly hurt kupuna and remote communities. Speakers said federal changes will add new work requirements affecting tens of thousands of people and that lengthening recertification could reduce churn, cut paperwork backlogs, and free staff time to focus on case management rather than repeated recertifications.
Witnesses urged that implementation coordinate with DHS’s planned new eligibility system (BES) rollout next spring to minimize disruption. Committee members raised no substantive objections in the hearing record and the committee recommended moving the measure forward as drafted.
Next steps: DHS would submit waiver applications and prepare any administrative adjustments needed to implement extended recertification periods if waivers are approved.
