Bill Introduced To Governor Greg Abbott Would Give More Texans Entitlement To Food Stamps

House Bill 1287 raises the threshold for vehicle value, resulting in a denial of aid to SNAP applicants.

Gov. Greg Abbott ( Photo: Spectrum News )

Low-income Texans may soon find it easier to qualify for food stamps, according to a bill passed by the state legislature

The State’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides food assistance to low-income residents. SNAP eligibility depends on income, household size, and citizenship status. But in Texas, a family could be disqualified based on the car’s value. Current Texas limits limit the maximum vehicle value to $15,000 for the first vehicle and $4,650 for each additional vehicle. Proponents say current restrictions force families to choose between owning a reliable car and providing for their family.

Used car prices increases 28% from March 2021 to March 2022, according to Cox Automotive.

Inflation raised food, utility bills, and automobile prices. Feeding Texas CEO Celia Cole told the Tribune that thousands of families lost their SNAP benefits when they were recertified because inflation made their cars so expensive. “Inflation in the used car market has made SNAP inaccessible to people with very limited incomes and struggling to keep food on the table,” Cole said. “Inflation and the car market shouldn’t keep families from putting food on the table.” This Texas rule has increasingly prevented Texas families from qualifying for food services, overstretched emergency food networks, and increased hunger in every Texas county.

READ ALSO: Up To $300 Tax Rebates In Alabama Approved By Lawmakers!