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Tennessee seeks to expand SNAP gross-income threshold to 200% FPL through BBCE rule
Summary
The Department of Human Services proposed a Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility rule to raise SNAP gross-income eligibility from 130% to 200% of the federal poverty level, remove the resource test, and streamline administration; DHS cited estimated improvements in payment error rates and said 46 states already use BBCE.
Callan Baggett, assistant commissioner for public information and legislative affairs at the Department of Human Services, presented a proposed Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) rule that would increase SNAP gross-income eligibility from 130% to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and remove the resource test while preserving the net income requirement at 100% of the FPL.
"This change means an individual with a gross monthly income of $2,660 or earning $15.35 an hour would now possibly qualify for SNAP benefits," Baggett said, noting the department's analysis using FY24 numbers suggested error rates could improve by 0.5 to 2 percentage points with BBCE in place. He added that 46 other states and territories have the policy in place.
Members asked about the fiscal implications and outreach plans. Baggett said benefit payments remain federally funded this year and described a future state cost-share tied to payment error rates beginning 10/01/2027, with thresholds affecting the state's share. The department plans outreach through customer portals, county offices and community partners.
Senate members moved the rule with a positive recommendation.
