U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) introduced a bill to alter work requirements for people receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
The America Works Act of 2023 would amend work requirements for Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs).
Currently, federal law requires Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) younger than 49 years old on SNAP to participate in work, training, or education for 20 hours a week. However, 18 states utilize waivers to exempt individuals from work requirements. Johnson said many states abuse these waivers and ignore work requirements for ABAWDs.
His bill would close the loophole that allows for those waivers.
“Work is the best pathway out of poverty,” Johnson said. “Work requirements have proven to be effective, and people who can work should work. With more than 11 million open jobs, there are plenty of opportunities for SNAP recipients to escape poverty and build a better life.”
Specifically, his bill would amend work requirements for ABAWDs, requiring them, unless exempted, to work or participate in work-related training or education for at least 20 hours per week to receive SNAP benefits. It would also raise the age limit of an ABAWD from 49 to 65 — consistent with the age individuals become eligible for Medicare.
In addition, the America Works Act of 2023 eliminates states’ ability to carry over exemption waivers from year to year.
The bill is cosponsored by Reps. Chuck Edwards (R-NC), Warren Davidson (R-OH), Jake Ellzey (R-TX), Mary Miller (R-IL), Doug Lamborn (R-CO), August Pfluger (R-TX), Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR), Josh Brecheen (R-OK), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Ryan Zinke (R-MT), Mark Alford (R-MO), Andy Ogles (R-TN), Max Miller (R-OH), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Randy Weber (R-TX), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Tim Walberg (R-MI), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Scott Franklin (R-FL),and Michael Cloud (R-TX).