OLGT 2024-36: SNAP: Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) Work Rules Updates

Due to the Public Health Emergency (PHE) related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ABAWD Work Rules were suspended. Last summer, following the end of the PHE, the Department was required to resume ABAWD Work Rules and time limits.

The Department developed a thoughtful phased plan to come into compliance with Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) requirements This plan included making system enhancements, and issuing procedural guidance to prevent SNAP recipients who are unable to meet ABAWD Work Rule requirements from losing nutritional support. During this time, DTA elected to apply discretionary exemptions to any ABAWD who did not qualify for an exemption. At that time, staff were advised to screen clients for exemptions in preparation for the return of ABAWD Work Rules and time limited SNAP benefits (see OLGT 2023-59).

Effective July 1, 2024, the Department has implemented system enhancements to reflect the approval for a new geographic waiver. This new geographic waiver is limited to five counties and certain cities and towns. With the significant decrease in the geographic waived areas, the Department anticipates an increase in the utilization of discretionary exemptions and is at risk of exhausting discretionary exemptions prematurely.