New Florida law imposes extra requirements on SNAP benefit recipients

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Recently signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, a new bill in Florida is set to bring significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), affecting nearly 3 million Floridians who rely on these benefits to purchase food.

Under the new law, many SNAP recipients will now be required to complete a minimum of 80 hours per month in an employment workforce training program. This requirement applies to individuals aged 18 to 59 with no dependents under 18 in their household.

Failure to meet these new requirements could result in the loss of SNAP benefits, crucial for covering essential food expenses.

The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) initiated these expanded requirements in 2023 following federal program changes. However, the newly enacted law makes it more challenging to waive these requirements during times of economic hardship or disasters.

Eimear Roy, a SNAP recipient, expresses deep concern over potentially losing her benefits due to her inability to fulfill the new mandatory hours. Roy, dealing with long COVID, diabetes, and heart problems, relies on SNAP benefits to maintain a healthy diet as she does not qualify for Medicaid or SSI benefits in Florida.

"In the state's eyes, I'm medically complex, but I've been denied all other forms of assistance," Roy explained. "Eating healthy is my primary medicine right now."

Roy fears that her health conditions, which often leave her physically debilitated, will prevent her from meeting the required hours. Despite her struggles, including caring for family members with disabilities, she remains determined to fight for her benefits.

"I'm clinging to life, and I'll keep fighting with the spirit I have," Roy emphasized. "But citizens like me could use a bit of understanding in these challenging times."

The implementation of these new requirements underscores the intersection of health challenges and economic policies affecting vulnerable populations across Florida.