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HB 740

Relating to the eligibility of certain students enrolled in a postsecondary educational institution for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Armando Walle

Texas bill expands SNAP eligibility for postsecondary students to increase food assistance access during college enrollment.

Referred to Human Services
#education--higher--admission&attendance(i0257) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #humanservices--foodprograms(i0910)
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Bill Summary · HB 740

Legislative bill overview

HB 740 modifies eligibility requirements for Texas students to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits while enrolled in postsecondary education. Currently, federal law restricts SNAP eligibility for full-time students unless they meet specific exemptions (work-study, part-time enrollment, or certain age/dependency criteria). This bill would expand which students can access these federal nutrition benefits.

Why is this important

Food insecurity among college students is a documented challenge affecting academic performance and retention rates. SNAP provides approximately $200/month per eligible individual, which can meaningfully impact low-income students' ability to afford both food and educational expenses. Texas hosts over 1.6 million postsecondary students, making this policy change potentially significant for addressing student poverty.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal funding implications: Since SNAP is federally funded, Texas may need to justify policy changes to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or the bill may attempt to use state funds to supplement federal benefits
  • Work requirement trade-offs: Expanding eligibility might reduce incentives for students to maintain work-study or part-time employment that was previously required
  • Cost and scope uncertainty: The bill text isn't detailed here, so unclear whether this expands eligibility broadly or targets specific student populations (first-generation, low-income, etc.), affecting fiscal impact estimates

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

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