Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed a bipartisan law, Senate Bill 35, that eliminates the asset test for SNAP benefits. This change aims to improve food assistance access and lower costs for Michiganders. People will no longer need to consider their savings or belongings when applying for food assistance.

Easier Food Assistance Access: Senate Bill 35 Stipulates. (Photo: FoxUp)

Easier Food Assistance Access: Senate Bill 35 Stipulates

Michigan has joined 36 other states in eliminating the burdensome asset test requirement for food assistance. This change ensures that families can receive the help they need without being subjected to the asset test, which forced them to sell their car or deplete their savings. By removing this asset test, families gain more financial stability, and health department caseworkers can focus on assisting people instead of handling unnecessary paperwork.

In a published article in Audacy, Governor Whitmer emphasized the significance of improving access to food assistance by removing the asset test requirement. No one should have to make difficult choices or sacrifice their vehicle and savings to provide food for themselves and their children. Previously, Michiganders with more than $15,000 in assets, including their vehicle and savings, were disqualified from receiving food assistance. This policy created unrealistic trade-offs for individuals facing job loss or financial challenges.

State Senator Jeff Irwin praised Michigan’s adoption of national eligibility standards, as it eliminates the need to spend state taxpayers’ money on blocking residents from receiving the help they need. The removal of the asset test ensures that food benefits are accessible to Michiganders without illogical barriers. This change aligns with the efforts of organizations, advocates, and legislators who fought to make food assistance more readily available to those in need.

READ ALSO: Biden Targets “Junk” Insurance, Promising Consumer Savings And Protection

Positive Impact: Over 710,500 Michigan Households, including 531,000 Children, to Benefit from Food Assistance Change

Michigan has taken a significant step by eliminating the burdensome asset test requirement for food assistance. State Senator Jeff Irwin stressed that families in need will no longer have to drain their resources and risk losing everything before receiving food aid. This move ensures that families in need can access support without facing unnecessary obstacles tied to the asset test.

Monique Stanton, President & CEO of the Michigan League for Public Policy, expressed that this change will benefit over 710,500 households in Michigan, including more than 531,000 children. Eliminating the asset test allows families to put food on the table as they work towards regaining financial security. This decision not only supports families but also reduces paperwork for caseworkers at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, enabling them to focus on assisting families and stimulating the local economy by ensuring families have sufficient resources to purchase food from local grocery stores.

READ ALSO: New Federal Food Stamp Requirements Will Be Implemented Soon, Here’s What You Should Know!