Field Ops Memo 2008-58: The Change from Food Stamp Program to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

The Farm Bill of 2008 changed the name of the Food Stamp Program to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This change was effective on a federal level as of October 1, 2008. Field Operations Memo2008-49 informed staff that a name change had taken place but that states could exercise their option to choose a state-specific name. Effective with the October issue of Transitions, the Commissioner announced that Massachusetts had adopted the national name SNAP. Choosing to remain aligned with the national program name should reduce any potential confusion that could be caused by the use of another name. In short, using the new name provides an opportunity for the program to be retooled and remarketed under the new slogan Putting Healthy Food Within Reach.