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Committee approves measure requiring CalFresh contingency and communications planning
Summary
SB 1077 would require the California Department of Social Services to develop communications and contingency plans to address federal shutdowns that disrupt CalFresh benefits; witnesses said prior shutdowns left millions without clear notice or options.
Sen. Gonzalez presented SB 1077 to require the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) to prepare communications and contingency plans that address misinformation and provide resources during federal shutdowns that could disrupt CalFresh benefits. The author cited the 43‑day federal shutdown on Oct. 1, 2025, which left millions of Californians uncertain about benefits.
Yesenia Robancho of End Child Poverty California said the shutdown forced counties, stakeholders and food banks to craft rapid responses to make recipients aware of disruptions and to redirect families to local food banks when benefits were delayed. She argued a state plan would ensure clearer communication and the capacity to distribute state‑funded benefits if necessary.
Multiple organizations including the League of California Cities and the California Association of Food Banks testified in support. The committee recommended an aye vote and passed the bill to the Assembly Appropriations Committee (final recorded 7–0).
