Senator César J. Blanco Files Bill to Address Food Insecurity for Texas Families

Press Release Contact: Taylor Sanchez
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Taylor.sanchez@senate.texas.gov
February 4, 2024
Senator César J. Blanco Files Bill to Address Food Insecurity
for Texas Families
Austin, Texas – Senator César J. Blanco has filed Senate Bill 1031 to address Texas’ growing
backlog of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications, ensuring families
can keep food on the table.
Texas is one of only five states that has not adopted a streamlined eligibility system. SB 1031
requires the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to implement a monthly
quality control review for a random sample of SNAP households rather than reviewing every
case, ensuring accurate benefit allotments without unnecessary delays.
“With an understaffed HHSC burdened by application backlogs, families are having to wait
months for food assistance, while food banks work tirelessly to fill the gap,” said Senator
Blanco. “This bill cuts through the red tape, streamlines the process, and ensures Texans get the
help they need without unnecessary delays."
SB 1031 extends the standard SNAP eligibility period to 12 months for most recipients and
streamlines the reporting process by allowing automated processing for cases with no changes in
income, household composition, or residence.
"Families shouldn't face bureaucratic obstacles just to access food assistance," said Senator
Blanco. "I'm committed to ensuring Texans get help faster while equipping HHSC to meet
demand. Addressing this backlog will reduce delays and make sure families receive support
when they need it most."