House Bill 1512 has been advanced to the desk of Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson. | File photo
House Bill 1512 has been advanced to the desk of Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson. | File photo
The Arkansas House and Senate have voted to approve House Bill 1512 that would eliminate temporary exemptions to the work requirement for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps.
The Senate voted 23-6 on the bill introduced by state Rep. Kendon Underwood (R-Cave Springs). The bill removes "no-good-cause" exemptions to a work requirement for SNAP benefits.
Only those between the ages of 18 to 49 and who have no dependents, or other qualifying exemptions, can be subject to the Abled Body and Without Dependents (ABAWD) work requirement in order to receive their SNAP benefits. In addition to "good cause" exceptions from the requirements, such as a lack of transportation, under federal law, Arkansas can exempt up to 12% of food stamp enrollees from the work requirement..
Not a single individual will lose benefits if they perform the pro-work activities required by the program.
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