SF 2069: Relating to modernization of nutrition programs in the state

What it does

This bill directs the department of health and human services (HHS) to modernize the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC) and the supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) in the state. The bill directs HHS to create an integrated eligibility determination application to be used for both WIC and SNAP. HHS shall also implement specified strategies as pilot initiatives including: incorporating all available federal waivers to modernize WIC by building or enhancing remote service, including through a waiver permitting the use of telephone and video calls, rather than requiring physical presence to complete WIC certification and recertification; and creating opportunities and modifying the department’s internet site for WIC to simplify the application process and WIC benefit distribution by streamlining eligibility for WIC applicants who demonstrate proof of enrollment in SNAP or Medicaid, enabling automatic online loading of benefits to WIC nutrition cards, offering online shopping with WIC nutrition cards, and exploring other opportunities to improve access to WIC benefits and to remove administrative burdens as allowed by federal law.

Senate subcommittee · named January 23, 2024

• Sen. Jeff Edler (R)
• Sen. Mark Costello (R) · mark.costello@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott (D) · sarah.trone.garriott@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 9 for, 0 against

For: Easterseals Iowa; Iowa Catholic Conference; Iowa Chapter of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners; Iowa Farmers Union; Iowa Food Bank Association; Iowa State Education Association; League of Women Voters of Iowa; Lutheran Services in IA, Inc.; The Family Leader Foundation

In plain words

1. January 18, 2024Filed in the Senate and sent to the Health and Human Services committee
2. January 23, 2024Senate subcommittee named: Edler, Costello and Trone Garriott