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SB 961

CalFresh: student eligibility.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Angelique Ashby and 2 co-sponsors

SB 961 expands CalFresh food assistance eligibility for California college students to reduce hunger-related barriers to higher education completion.

May 14 hearing: Held in committee and under submission.
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Bill Summary · SB 961

Legislative bill overview

SB 961 modifies eligibility requirements for CalFresh (California's food assistance program) to expand access for college and university students. The bill is currently in the Rules Committee stage after receiving author's amendments in March 2026. The specific provisions expanding student eligibility are not detailed in the available action history.

Why is this important

Food insecurity among college students is a documented problem affecting academic performance and retention. Expanding CalFresh eligibility could reduce financial barriers to higher education and improve student welfare during an economically challenging time. This directly impacts thousands of California students and their ability to focus on coursework rather than food security.

Potential points of contention

  • Work requirement implications: Changes to how student work-study or part-time employment affects CalFresh eligibility could expand access but may create administrative complexity
  • Income threshold definitions: Determining what constitutes acceptable student income (parental support, loans, grants, wages) will affect who qualifies
  • Funding and fiscal impact: Expanding the program increases state expenditures at a time of competing budget priorities, requiring cost-benefit analysis

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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