A new law allows people to apply for SNAP (aka food stamps) over the phone.
Aiming to make the application process for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) more convenient and accessible, Governor Phil Murphy recently signed legislation to allow applicants to apply for SNAP benefits by phone. The measure previously passed the full Assembly in March 73-0 and the Senate in February 34-0.
Under the new law (formerly bill A-4240 ), the Commissioner of the Department of Human Services must consult with county welfare agencies and county boards of social services to create an electronic system to process phone applications. The system must be in compliance with federal standards.
“This is a great step forward in helping more people receive this critical nutrition assistance,” said Adele LaTourette, director, Hunger Free New Jersey.
The law’s sponsors, Assembly Democrats Joann Downey (D-Monmouth), Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen), Eric Houghtaling (D-Monmouth) and Speaker Craig J. Coughlin (D-Middlesex), released the following joint statement:
“Without SNAP, many families would struggle to put food on the table, and children would go hungry. Not only does SNAP help lift people out of poverty, but it also helps improve their overall health and well-being. We want to make sure every family that’s eligible for these essential benefits can easily and conveniently take advantage of this program.”
