New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1741

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Makes FY2026 supplemental appropriation of $175 million from General Fund to DHS for Emergency SNAP Replacement Benefits.

Impact

The bill's enactment is expected to significantly impact food security for approximately 800,000 New Jersey residents who rely on SNAP. By providing these replacement benefits, the state aims to offset potential shortfalls caused by the federal funding halt, ensuring continuity in assistance for low-income families. The DHS will administer these benefits, maintaining the SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer system processes to distribute funds efficiently and effectively. This legislative move addresses immediate needs and reflects the state's commitment to safeguard against hunger in vulnerable populations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1741 proposes a supplemental appropriation of $175 million from the General Fund to the Department of Human Services (DHS) specifically allocated for Emergency SNAP Replacement Benefits. This funding aims to support Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households in New Jersey during the fiscal year 2026. It is designed to issue monthly replacement benefits to eligible households in situations where the federal SNAP benefit amount they receive falls below what they are entitled to based on their certifications. Given that federal SNAP funding was suspended due to a government shutdown, this funding is critical for maintaining food assistance for many families.

Contention

Although the bill appears straightforward in providing necessary support, potential points of contention could arise regarding the sourcing and management of the allocated funds. Some legislators may question the reliance on state funds due to uncertainties in the timing and total amount of federal reimbursements expected from the USDA. Furthermore, there might be debates over how effectively the DHS can manage these additional benefits and whether this approach adequately addresses long-term solutions for food insecurity.

Companion Bills

NJ A6101

Carry Over Makes FY2026 supplemental appropriation of $175 million from General Fund to DHS for Emergency SNAP Replacement Benefits.

NJ S3863

Same As Makes FY2026 supplemental appropriation of $175 million from General Fund to DHS for Emergency SNAP Replacement Benefits.

Similar Bills

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.