reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.2 - SNAP application process technologically upgraded.

44:10-81.2 SNAP application process technologically upgraded.
1. a. Consistent with federal law, the Commissioner of Human Services shall permit applicants for SNAP to apply by phone, electronic device, or kiosk, as well as for employees of county welfare agencies and county boards of social services to conduct SNAP interviews by telephone, electronic device, or kiosk. The commissioner shall establish requirements to ensure the security and privacy of applications submitted, and interviews conducted, by telephone or using an electronic device or kiosk pursuant to this section.
b. The commissioner shall:
(1) consult with county welfare agencies and county boards of social services to create an electronic record information processing system to process applications submitted for SNAP using telephones, electronic devices, and kiosks and for interviews conducted using telephones, electronic devices, and kiosks pursuant to subsection a. of this section, and ensure such systems are in compliance with federal standards; and
(2) apply and receive approval for such waivers as may be necessary to implement the provisions of this section.
c. County welfare agencies and county boards of social services shall designate an employee of the agency or board as the agency's or board's county social service liaison. County social service liaisons shall be responsible for consulting with institutions of higher education and the higher education community to assist with any technical assistance questions from SNAP applicants and from the county welfare agency or county board of social services arising from the use of telephones, electronic devices, and kiosks in connection with SNAP applications and SNAP interviews.
d. As used in this section:
"Electronic device" means a desktop or laptop computer, mobile phone, tablet, or any other Internet-connected device that is capable of electronically receiving and transmitting the information necessary to process an application for benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
"SNAP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
amended 2022, c.30, s.4.
L.2021, c.93; amended 2022, c.30, s.4.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.3 - Streamlining SNAP application for senior citizens.

44:10-81.3 Streamlining SNAP application for senior citizens.
1. a. The Commissioner of Human Services, to the maximum extent permissible under federal law, shall review and streamline the SNAP application process, as provided in this section. The goal of the streamlining process shall be to maximize the enrollment of eligible SNAP participants in New Jersey by increasing the accessibility of the SNAP application.
b. In streamlining the SNAP application process, as required by this section, the commissioner shall, at a minimum, update the online application system to ensure the system employs current technology and is user friendly, with features that include, but are not limited to, easy account creation, easy user access, and easy tracking of an applicant's application status.
c. The Department of Human Services, working in consultation and cooperation with appropriate advocacy organizations, shall engage in comprehensive outreach efforts to ensure that New Jersey residents are made aware of their ability to apply for and obtain SNAP benefits through a streamlined and expedited process. At a minimum, the department shall provide outreach at all health care facilities, social service agencies that serve seniors in the State, and other organizations focused on food assistance, and shall use all available media, including print, radio, television, and the Internet, to inform residents of the availability of the streamlined SNAP application process established pursuant to this section.
d. The Commissioner of Human Services shall apply to the Food and Nutrition Service within the United States Department of Agriculture for any necessary waivers or approvals to implement the provisions of this section.
e. As used in this section:
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Human Services.
"Department" means the Department of Human Services.
"SNAP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
L.2021, c.243, s.1; amended 2022, c.26, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.4 - Rules, regulations.

44:10-81.4 Rules, regulations.
2. The Commissioner of Human Services may adopt rules and regulations, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), as may be necessary to implement the provisions of this act and P.L.2022, c.26 (C.44:10-81.5 et al.).
L.2021, c.243, s.2; amended 2022, c.26, s.4.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.5 - SNAP application call center established.

44:10-81.5 SNAP application call center established.
3. a. The Department of Human Services shall establish a call center where department employees, or persons under contract with the department are available in real-time to assist individuals in:
(1) navigating the SNAP application process;
(2) checking on the status of an application; and
(3) troubleshooting any issues with the application.
b. The commissioner shall apply to the Food and Nutrition Service within the United States Department of Agriculture for any necessary waivers or approvals to implement the provisions of this section.
c. As used in this section:
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Human Services.
"Department" means the Department of Human Services.
"SNAP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
L.2022, c.26, s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.6 - Maintain, conduct new outreach programs; "SNAP Navigator Program" established.

44:10-81.6 Maintain, conduct new outreach programs; "SNAP Navigator Program" established.
1. a. The department shall, consistent with federal requirements, maintain a SNAP outreach plan targeted at increasing potential beneficiaries' access to:
(1) information regarding the availability of SNAP, the criteria for eligibility for SNAP benefits, and the various methods to apply for SNAP benefits; and
(2) the technological means to apply for SNAP benefits.
b. The department shall, subject to available funds, conduct additional outreach programs, which may include:
(1) establishing a SNAP Navigator Program, the purpose of which shall be to recruit, train, and support SNAP application navigators via a process and method determined by the commissioner;
(2) making available training to the appropriate staff at community-based organizations regarding the necessary steps to complete and submit a SNAP application, through all available methods, including online and by telephone. Staff trained pursuant to this paragraph shall assist clients with the SNAP application process;
(3) partnering with community-based organizations to increase client access to computers and the online SNAP application;
(4) providing SNAP information and resources to beneficiaries of public assistance programs who are served by the department and county welfare agencies, and who are likely to be eligible for, but are not currently receiving, SNAP benefits; and
(5) conducting a public awareness campaign using available media, including television, radio, print, and social media, to inform the public of the availability of SNAP.
c. As used in this section:
"Commissioner" means Commissioner of Human Services.
"Department" means the Department of Human Services.
"Public assistance program" means any program administered through the Department of Human Services, a county welfare agency, or a collaboration between the two which is authorized to provide assistance and services to needy persons, including, but not limited to: the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.); the Work First New Jersey program established pursuant to P.L.1997, c.38 (C.44:10-55 et seq.); and the Medicaid program established pursuant to P.L.1968, c.413 (C.30:4D-1 et seq.).
"SNAP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
L.2022, c.28, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.7 - Definitions.

44:10-81.7 Definitions.
1. As used in this act:
"Commissioner" means Commissioner of Human Services.
"Department" means Department of Human Services.
"SNAP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
L.2022, c.30, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.7a - Standard certification period, not less than 12 months within SNAP, conditions; definitions.

44:10-81.7a Standard certification period, not less than 12 months within SNAP, conditions; definitions.
1. a. The Commissioner of Human Services shall establish a standard certification period of not less than 12 months within SNAP, except that the certification period shall be not less than 24 months if all adult household members are elderly or disabled provided that all certified households shall have contact with a State SNAP administering agency at least once every 12 months. These certification periods shall not apply to initial certification periods for expedited benefit issuance or if a shorter certification period is necessary to align with the certification period of another program or to ensure the proper issuance of benefits.
b. The Commissioner shall apply to the Food and Nutrition Service within the United States Department of Agriculture for any necessary waivers or approvals to implement the provisions of this section.
c. As used in this section:
"Certification period" means the period for which households shall be eligible to receive SNAP benefits.
"Elderly or disabled" means the same as defined in section 3 of the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2012).
"SNAP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
L.2023, c.145.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.8 - Training program established; assist in SNAP enrollment.

44:10-81.8 Training program established; assist in SNAP enrollment.
2. a. The Department of Human Services, to the maximum extent permissible under federal law, shall establish a training program for county boards of social services that assist individuals with SNAP enrollment and recertification processes. The purpose of the training shall be to educate employees, including supervisory and managerial employees and designated county training staff, on current federal laws, regulations, and standards concerning SNAP, and standard best practices to comply with federal SNAP requirements, with the goal of ensuring employees of county boards of social services are at all times in compliance with federal laws, regulations, standards, and best practices as they pertain to SNAP. The department shall review the training program and curriculum each year and may modify the training program from time to time, as need may require, to incorporate any changes to the federal laws, regulations, and standards concerning SNAP.
b. Participation in the training program established pursuant to this section shall be mandatory for all employees of a county board of social services who assist individuals with SNAP enrollment and recertification processes, as well as for all supervisory or management employees of the county board of social services who interview, process, or review SNAP cases and designated training staff of the county board of social services. Each county board of social services shall be responsible for ensuring that:
(1) all required employees complete the training program at least twice in each calendar year;
(2) all newly hired employees of the county board of social services who will assist individuals with SNAP enrollment and recertification processes, who will interview, process, or review SNAP cases in a managerial or supervisory role, or who will serve as designated training staff for the county board of social services complete the training within one month of hire; and
(3) all employees who assist individuals with SNAP enrollment and recertification processes, who interview, process, or review SNAP cases in a managerial or supervisory role, or who serve as designated training staff members, complete the training as a condition of any professional promotion within the county board of social services.
L.2022, c.30, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-81.10 - Waiver, approval application; rules, regulations.

44:10-81.10 Waiver, approval application; rules, regulations.
5. a. The Commissioner of Human Services shall apply to the Food and Nutrition Service within the United States Department of Agriculture for any necessary waivers or approvals to implement the provisions of this act.
b. The commissioner may adopt rules and regulations as may be necessary to effectuate the provisions of this act, which rules and regulations shall be effective immediately upon filing with the Office of Administrative Law for a period not to exceed 18 months, and may, thereafter, be amended, adopted, or readopted in accordance with the provisions of the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.).
c. The commissioner shall annually request funding in an amount as shall be necessary and appropriate to support additional funding for county call centers to address technical assistance questions from SNAP applicants, county welfare agencies, and county boards of social services arising from the use of telephones, electronic devices, and kiosks in connection with SNAP applications and SNAP interviews pursuant to section 2 of P.L.2022, c.30 (C.44:10-81.8).
L.2022, c.30, s.5.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-83 - State payment of county administrative costs.

44:10-83 State payment of county administrative costs.
5. The State shall pay the full amount of each county's administrative costs applicable to households that contain only persons eligible for the program. These costs shall be determined in accordance with the approved cost allocation plan of the department.
L.1998,c.32,s.5.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-84 - Noncitizen federal food stamp recipients not eligible.

44:10-84 Noncitizen federal food stamp recipients not eligible.
6. A noncitizen who is eligible for the federal food stamp program shall not be eligible for the program. A noncitizen who is ineligible for the federal food stamp program, but is eligible for the program, and who subsequently is made eligible for the federal food stamp program due to changes in federal law, shall lose entitlement to benefits under the program upon receipt of benefits under the federal food stamp program.
L.1998,c.32,s.6.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-85 - Rules, regulations.

44:10-85 Rules, regulations.
11. The Commissioner of Human Services, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), shall adopt rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this act.
L.1998,c.32,s.11.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-87 - Findings, declarations regarding individual development accounts

44:10-87. Findings, declarations regarding individual development accounts
2. a. The Legislature finds and declares that:
(1) Economic well-being does not come solely from income, spending and consumption, but also requires savings, investment and accumulation of assets, since assets can improve economic stability, connect people with a viable and hopeful future, stimulate development of human and other capital, yield personal and social dividends and enhance the welfare of offspring.
(2) With the enactment of the "Work First New Jersey Act," P.L.1997, c.38 (C.44:10-55 et seq.) and companion legislation, emphasizing moving people off of public assistance and into employment, there is an urgent need to provide incentives for savings accounts that will complement and stabilize the movement of people from public assistance and into employment.
(3) Income-based social policy should be complemented with asset-based social policy, because while income-based policies ensure that consumption needs, including food, child care, rent, clothing and health care are met, asset-based policies provide the means to achieve some degree of economic self-sufficiency.
(4) The State of New Jersey should develop policies, such as individual development accounts, that promote higher rates of personal savings and net private domestic investment.
b. It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, to provide for the establishment of individual development accounts which accounts are designed to:
(1) provide individuals and families, especially those with limited means, an opportunity to accumulate assets;
(2) facilitate and mobilize savings;
(3) promote education, home ownership and micro enterprise development; and
(4) stabilize families and build communities.
L.2001,c.93,s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-88 - Definitions regarding individual development accounts.

44:10-88 Definitions regarding individual development accounts.
3. As used in this act:
"Account holder" means a person who is the owner of an individual development account.
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Community Affairs.
"Community-based organization" means a not-for-profit organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. s.501(c)(3)) and exempt from taxation under section 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. s.501 (a)), that is approved by the commissioner to implement the New Jersey Individual Development Account Program established under this act.
"Department" means the Department of Community Affairs.
"Economic literacy" means a basic understanding of budgets and savings accounts, credit and interest and how to use financial services; and having a savings plan and using it to reach the account holder's savings goal for an individual development account.
"Eligible individual" means an adult with an annual household gross income up to a maximum of 250 percent of the official poverty level.
"Financial institution" means a state or federally chartered bank, savings bank, savings and loan association or credit union with an office in this State.
"Fund" means the Individual Development Account Fund established pursuant to 42 U.S.C. s.604(h) and 45 C.F.R. Part 263 (45 C.F.R. s.263.0 et seq.).
"Individual development account" means an account established pursuant to 42 U.S.C. s.604(h) and 45 C.F.R. Part 263 (45 C.F.R. s.263.0 et seq.) in trust for an eligible individual that is a trust account pursuant to the "Multiple-party Deposit Account Act," P.L.1979, c.491 (C.17:16I-1 et seq.).
"Program" means the New Jersey Individual Development Account Program established pursuant to the provisions of this act.
"Program contributor" means a person or entity who makes a contribution to an individual development account reserve fund, except that "program contributor" does not mean the account holder.
"Reserve fund" means the individual development account reserve fund created by a community-based organization for the purposes of: funding the costs incurred in the administration of the program; receiving matching funds from the State; and providing matching funds for individual development accounts pursuant to section 5 of this act.
L.2001, c.93, s.3; amended 2019, c.460, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-91 - Transfer of account on death of holder

44:10-91. Transfer of account on death of holder
6. a. Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law to the contrary, in the event of the death of the account holder, the ownership of the individual development account shall be transferred to the ownership of a contingent beneficiary, which the account holder shall name at the time the account is established and may change at any time. If the beneficiary is deceased or otherwise cannot accept the transfer, the moneys in the individual development account derived from the account holder's earned income and any interest accrued thereon shall be transferred to the estate of the account holder.
b. If an individual development account is closed pursuant to subsection a. of this section or an account holder withdraws from the individual development account program or forfeits his State matching funds due to an unauthorized withdrawal, any moneys held for matching funds for that account may be retained in the reserve fund for reallocation to be used as matching funds for new individual development accounts.
L.2001,c.93,s.6.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-92 - Moneys in, interest on account not considered gross income

44:10-92. Moneys in, interest on account not considered gross income
7. a. Moneys deposited into or withdrawn from an individual development account by an account holder pursuant to subsection c. of section 5 of this act or matched by a community-based organization pursuant to paragraph (7) of subsection e. of section 5 of this act shall not be considered gross income otherwise includable as income pursuant to subsections a., b., k., and p. of N.J.S.54A:5-1.
b. Interest earned by an individual development account shall not be considered gross income otherwise includable as income pursuant to subsection e. of N.J.S.54A:5-1.
c. Moneys deposited in an individual development account and the interest from an individual development account under this act shall not be taken into account in determining eligibility or the amount of assistance under State and federal means-tested programs pursuant to 42 U.S.C s.604(h) and 45 C.F.R. s.263.20.
L.2001,c.93,s.7.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-93 - Regulations; consultation with Human Services

44:10-93. Regulations; consultation with Human Services
8. a. The commissioner shall promulgate regulations pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), necessary to effectuate the provisions of this act.
b. The commissioner shall consult with the Commissioner of Human Services regarding the development, operation and administration of the program and ensuring compliance with 42 U.S.C. s.604(h) and 45 C.F.R. Part 263 (45 C.F.R. s.263.0 et seq.).
L.2001,c.93,s.8.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-94 - Report to Legislature

44:10-94. Report to Legislature
9. a. The commissioner shall report to the Legislature annually on the effectiveness of the program in providing eligible individuals in this State with an opportunity to establish an individual development account and may include in the report recommendations for change, if any, to make the program more effective. This report shall be due within 30 days of the end of the anniversary of the effective date of this section for each year the program is in operation.
b. The Department of Community Affairs shall make available to the Departments of Labor and Human Services necessary individual development account statistical and program information in a usable format and in a timely manner, so that those departments may prepare federal and other reports.
L.2001,c.93,s.9.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-95 - Short title.

44:10-95 Short title.
1. P.L.2013, c.45 (C.44:10-95 et seq.) shall be known and may be cited as the "New Jersey SNAP Employment and Training Provider 50/50 Match Project Act."
L.2013, c.45, s.1; amended 2019, c.253, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-97 - Establishment of New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program Employment and Training Provider 50/50 Match Project.

44:10-97 Establishment of New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program Employment and Training Provider 50/50 Match Project.
3. a. The Department of Human Services shall establish the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Provider 50/50 Match Project under which the department shall: (1) provide and enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Labor and Workforce Development by which the Department of Labor and Workforce Development shall implement, administer, and operate the project and NJ SNAP ETP activities including, issuing requests for proposals, selecting partnering providers, obtaining activity reports from providers, and issuing payment to providers; and (2) form partnerships with qualifying agencies to provide services to eligible participants under NJ SNAP ETP and receive federal reimbursements for those services. The memorandum of understanding executed by the departments shall define how the departments shall coordinate their efforts, the roles and expectations of each, and shall detail the process by which funds for the support of the project and other NJ SNAP ETP activities shall be transferred from the department to the Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
b. Applicants for participation as partnering providers in the project shall be qualifying agencies whose employment and training activities qualify for reimbursement under the federal SNAP ETP program. Partnering providers in the project shall be selected according to the process and criteria specified in P.L.2013, c.45 (C.44:10-95 et seq.).
L.2013, c.45, s.3; amended 2019, c.253, s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-97.1 - New Jersey SNAP ETP participation not required to receive SNAP benefits; information provided to recipients.

44:10-97.1 New Jersey SNAP ETP participation not required to receive SNAP benefits; information provided to recipients.
1. a. The NJ SNAP ETP shall be a voluntary program, and the Division of Family Development in the Department of Human Services or a county welfare agency shall not require participation in a NJ SNAP ETP activity or in a New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Provider 50/50 Match Project, as established under P.L.2013, c.45 (C.44:10-95 et seq.), in order to be deemed eligible for SNAP benefits.
b. The division and each county welfare agency shall ensure that all recipients of SNAP benefits are provided information regarding, and the opportunity to participate in, employment and training opportunities consistent with federal SNAP ETP reimbursement requirements.
c. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the division or a county welfare agency to impose penalties for noncompliance with federal SNAP work requirements.
d. The division shall submit, in a timely manner, any necessary revisions to the State Employment and Training Plan to the Food and Nutrition Service in the United States Department of Agriculture, as required pursuant to federal regulations, in order to effectuate the provisions of this section.
e. As used in this section:
"NJ SNAP ETP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Program that assists SNAP recipients with acquiring the skills, training, work, or experience necessary to obtain regular employment, as established under the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and as described in the most recent State Employment and Training Plan submitted to the Food and Nutrition Service in the United States Department of Agriculture.
"New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Provider 50/50 Match Project" means the project established pursuant to P.L.2013, c.45 (C.44:10-95 et seq.).
"Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program" or "SNAP" means the program established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
"SNAP ETP" means the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Program administered by the Food and Nutrition Service in the United States Department of Agriculture and established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.) and any regulations adopted pursuant thereto.
L.2022, c.27, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-103 - Report to Governor, Legislature.

44:10-103 Report to Governor, Legislature.
9. The Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development shall issue a report no later than six months following the effective date of P.L.2013, c.45 (C.44:10-95 et seq.), and annually thereafter no later than September 30 of each year, to the Governor and, pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1), to the Legislature summarizing the participants, activities, and outcomes of the project. The initial report under this section shall include, but not be limited to, a summary of the request for proposals issued pursuant to section 4 of P.L.2013, c.45 (C.44:10-98). Subsequent reports under this section shall include, but not be limited to, the identities of the partnering providers selected pursuant to section 4 of P.L.2013, c.45 (C.44:10-98) and a summary of project participant demographics, activities, and outcomes for each partnering provider. The reports issued pursuant to this section shall not disclose the identities of any SNAP applicants or recipients and shall adhere to all applicable federal laws and regulations restricting the unauthorized disclosure of information concerning applicants for, and recipients of, SNAP benefits.
L.2013, c.45, s.9; amended 2019, c.253, s.9.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-104 - Certain income excluded in determining eligibility.

44:10-104 Certain income excluded in determining eligibility.
10. Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law or regulation to the contrary, the department and the county welfare agencies shall exclude from a household's income all legally-obligated or court-ordered child support payments paid by a household member to, or on behalf of, a non-household member, including payments to a third party on behalf of the non-household member and amounts paid toward arrearages, for the purpose of determining whether a household meets applicable gross and net SNAP income eligibility standards.
L.2013, c.45, s.10.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-105 - Review of available data by commissioner.

44:10-105 Review of available data by commissioner.
1. a. The Commissioner of Human Services shall submit to the Food and Nutrition Service within the United States Department of Agriculture a request for a waiver, as authorized by 7 C.F.R. 273.24(f), of the time limit on benefits for able-bodied adults without dependents who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The commissioner shall seek either a Statewide waiver for time limits on benefits for this population, or a waiver for select geographic areas of the State.
b. At least once annually after the submission of the waiver pursuant to subsection a. of this section, the commissioner shall conduct a review of available data on labor and employment in the State produced by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics in order to determine whether to submit a subsequent request for a waiver of the benefit time limit for able-bodied adults without dependents participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The review shall consider each criterion of eligibility for a waiver as well as the availability of opportunities that will fulfill the work requirement described in 7 C.F.R. 273.24(a). Based on the annual review conducted pursuant to this subsection, the commissioner shall submit a request for a waiver for the maximum number of areas which are eligible for a waiver. The waiver request shall be for all geographic areas which represent the largest number of individuals eligible for a waiver of the able-bodied adults without dependents time limits on the receipt of SNAP benefits. This support shall serve to fulfill the requirements described in 7 U.S.C. s.2015(o)(4)(A).
L.2016, c.11, s.1 amended 2022, c.29.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-106 - Report to Governor, Legislature.

44:10-106 Report to Governor, Legislature.
2. a. The Commissioner of Human Services shall issue a report annually over the next three years, with the first report being issued no later than one month following the effective date of this act, to the Governor and, pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1), to the Legislature on:
(1) the number of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participants in each county who are subject to the benefit time limit for able bodied adults without dependents; and
(2) the number of participants whose benefits were terminated in the past year as a result of the benefit time limit.
b. The report shall also describe the review of labor and employment data conducted pursuant to section 1 of this act and any actions taken by the commissioner related to requesting a waiver of the time limit.
L.2016, c.11, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-106.1 - SNAP applicants, beneficiaries; biennial survey on application experience, difficulties; procedure.

44:10-106.1 SNAP applicants, beneficiaries; biennial survey on application experience, difficulties; procedure.
1. a. The Department of Human Services shall conduct a biennial survey of SNAP applicants and beneficiaries for the purpose of evaluating the SNAP experience of the applicants and beneficiaries. The biennial survey shall include, at a minimum, questions concerning the applicant's or beneficiary's experience in navigating the SNAP application process, any difficulties the applicant or beneficiary encountered in the application process, the availability of consumer support at the county welfare agency, and how well the applicant's or beneficiary's questions and concerns were addressed by staff at the county welfare agency.
b. The purpose of the biennial survey shall be to:
(1) identify the strengths and weaknesses of each county welfare agency in processing SNAP applications;
(2) formulate trainings or strategies to improve the processing of SNAP applications; and
(3) assess which counties require additional resource and staff support.
c. When conducting the biennial survey required pursuant to this section, the department shall ensure the survey is distributed to all SNAP applicants at each county welfare agency throughout the duration of the survey period.
d. The commissioner shall, no later than 18 months after the completion of each biennial survey, submit a report to the Legislature, pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1), documenting the results of the biennial survey and providing the commissioner's recommendations for legislation or other appropriate action.
e. As used in this section:
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Human Services.
"Department" means the Department of Human Services.
"SNAP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.) and P.L.1998, c.32 (C.44:10-79 et seq.).
L.2021, c.453, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-107 - Definitions regarding mobile-friendly software and SNAP.

44:10-107 Definitions regarding mobile-friendly software and SNAP.
1. As used in this act:
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Human Services.
"Electronic benefit transfer card or benefit card" means a benefit card utilized by a consumer to gain access to nutrition assistance program benefits.
"Mobile-friendly software" means a computer program or web-based software application designed to be used in conjunction with a mobile electronic communication device, as defined herein, and available through multiple software platforms.
"Mobile electronic communication device" means any mobile device capable of communication or other transmission of information and includes, but is not limited to, a cellular telephone, wireless tablet, or other device with Internet capability, or other wireless communication device.
"Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program" or "SNAP" means the supplemental nutrition assistance program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.88-525 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
L.2021, c.245, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-108 - Mobile-friendly software for SNAP recipients.

44:10-108 Mobile-friendly software for SNAP recipients.
2. a. The Department of Human Services shall develop and maintain, or enter into or modify an agreement with a third party to develop and maintain mobile-friendly software for SNAP recipients. The mobile-friendly software shall include, but not be limited to, functionality that allows a user of the mobile software program who is recipient of SNAP benefits to:
(1) view the user's SNAP case status and the current benefits the user receives;
(2) request an electronic benefit transfer card or a replacement card;
(3) upload and submit required documents for continued participation in SNAP and track the current processing status of those documents;
(4) receive notices and updates regarding important deadlines or actions;
(5) read and print notices and letters;
(6) update contact information;
(7) request to have a letter mailed to the user listing the amount of benefits the user receives;
(8) view local contact information for the County Board of Social Services for the county in which the user resides and
(9) access any other functionalities as determined by the department.
b. The mobile-friendly software shall be made available free of charge and in multiple languages.
L.2021, c.245, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-109 - Commissioner's application for waivers, grants.

44:10-109 Commissioner's application for waivers, grants.
3. The commissioner shall apply for any:
a. waivers from the federal government, which are necessary for the approval and implementation of this act; and
b. grants through the SNAP Process and Technology Improvement Grants program within the United States Department of Agriculture to receive federal funding to implement the provisions of this act.
L.2021, c.245, s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-110 - Rules, regulations.

44:10-110 Rules, regulations.
4. The Commissioner of Human Services, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), shall promulgate rules and regulations as may be necessary to effectuate the provisions of this act.
L.2021, c.245, s.5.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:10-111 - "State SNAP Minimum Benefit Program" established; definitions.

44:10-111 "State SNAP Minimum Benefit Program" established; definitions.
1. a. There is established in the Division of Family Development in the Department of Human Services the State SNAP Minimum Benefit Program. Under the program, the division shall distribute to each eligible household a monthly State SNAP benefit equal to the difference between the household's federal SNAP monthly benefit and $95, which amount may be increased by the Commissioner of Human Services, as deemed appropriate and subject to available State appropriations. If federal funds become available for the purposes of this subsection, the Commissioner of Human Services shall utilize such federal funds as the primary source for issuing the monthly State SNAP benefit before State funds, if necessary, are expended. The State SNAP benefit shall be provided to an eligible household in addition to the federal SNAP benefit.
b. The program shall be subject to the same State rules and procedures for implementing the federal SNAP to the greatest extent possible, including, but not limited to, distributing the State SNAP benefit using the program's Electronic Benefit Transfer system and requiring that benefits be used solely for the purchase of food as defined in 7 U.S.C. s.2012.
c. The Commissioner of Human Services shall apply to the Food and Nutrition Service within the United States Department of Agriculture for any necessary waivers or approvals to implement the provisions of this section.
d. As used in this section:
"Eligible household" means a household that is certified to receive a federal SNAP benefit of at least one dollar per month, but less than $95 per month, or a larger amount as deemed appropriate by the Commissioner of Human Services, subject to available State and federal funds.
"SNAP" means the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, established pursuant to the federal "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008," Pub.L.110-246 (7 U.S.C. s.2011 et seq.).
L.2022, c.32; amended 2023, c.13.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:11-1 - Definitions.

44:11-1 Definitions.
1. As used in P.L.1964, c.155 (C.44:11-1 et seq.):
"Court" means the Superior Court in the county whose welfare board is responsible for making payments of public assistance to or for the benefit of the recipient or, in cases where a representative payee has been appointed pursuant to P.L.1964, c.155, the Superior Court having made such appointment.
"Functionally incapacitated" means subject to a mental, physical, or emotional condition which renders the individual incapable of receiving and utilizing payments of public assistance in a manner conducive to the health and well-being of the individual and the individual's dependents.
"Representative payee" means a person appointed by a court to act for a recipient to the extent of receiving and administering payments of public assistance.
"Public assistance" means "old age assistance" and "disability assistance" as authorized by Revised Statutes, Title 44, chapter 7; "blind assistance" as authorized by Revised Statutes, Title 30, chapter 6; "assistance for dependent children" as authorized by chapter 86, laws of 1959; together with amendments and supplements to any of the foregoing; and any other program administered through the county welfare boards, by whatever name now or hereafter known, which is authorized to provide financial assistance to needy persons in the form of money payments.
"Recipient" means a person who has been found eligible to receive payments of public assistance.
"Welfare board" means the county welfare board or board of social services responsible for making payments of public assistance to or for the benefit of the recipient.
L.1964, c.155, s.1; amended 1991, c.91, s.446; 2013, c.103, s.120.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:11-2 - Appointment of representative payee; contents of complaints.

44:11-2 Appointment of representative payee; contents of complaints.
2. Whenever it appears necessary to appoint a representative payee for a recipient who is functionally incapacitated, a complaint seeking such appointment may be filed with the court by the welfare board. The complaint shall set forth the name, age, and place of residence of the recipient; the name and place of residence of the nearest relative of the recipient, if known; and that the recipient has been found otherwise eligible to receive a grant of public assistance.
L.1964, c.155, s.2; amended 2013, c.103, s.121.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:11-3 - Statement that recipient is functionally incapacitated.

44:11-3 Statement that recipient is functionally incapacitated.
3. A verified statement by the director of the welfare board, or the director's authorized representative, annexed to the complaint and setting forth that a review by the Division of Family Services in the Department of Human Services indicates that the recipient is functionally incapacitated, shall be prima facie evidence of the necessity for the appointment.
L.1964, c.155, s.3; amended 2013, c.103, s.122.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:11-4 - Hearing; evidence; appointment of representative.

44:11-4 Hearing; evidence; appointment of representative.
4. Upon the filing of a complaint and verified statement as provided by P.L.1964, c.155 (C.44:11-1 et seq.), the court shall proceed in a summary manner to hear testimony for the purpose of determining whether the recipient is functionally incapacitated. The written certification of two physicians who have been in the actual practice of medicine and surgery in this State for at least five years shall be sufficient, but not required, evidence to establish the condition of the recipient. If the court is satisfied that the recipient is functionally incapacitated, the court shall appoint a fit and proper person as representative payee for the recipient.
L.1964, c.155, s.4; amended 2013, c.103, s.123.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:11-5 - Powers and duties of representative

44:11-5. Powers and duties of representative
A representative payee appointed pursuant to this act shall be authorized and empowered to receive payments of public assistance made for and on behalf of the recipient, and to administer such payments for the sole benefit of such recipient, in accordance with the laws and regulations governing such payments. Nothing in this act shall authorize or empower such representative payee to receive, hold or administer any other property, real or personal, of the recipient nor to act as representative of the recipient in any other manner whatsoever.
L.1964, c. 155, s. 5.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 44 - Poor › Section 44:11-6 - Responsibility for payments; statement of account; disposition of balance on death or discharge of representative

44:11-6. Responsibility for payments; statement of account; disposition of balance on death or discharge of representative
(a) A representative payee appointed pursuant to this act shall be personally responsible for the proper expenditure of all payments of public assistance made on behalf of the recipient, but shall not be required to give bond, and shall not be entitled to compensation for any acts or services performed.
(b) At least once each year following appointment as representative payee, or upon discharge from such office, or upon notice that payments of public assistance are being discontinued, such representative payee shall file with the court a statement of account under oath showing the total amount of moneys received, the amount disbursed on behalf of the recipient, and the balance, if any, remaining in the hands of the representative payee. No further action by the court shall be required if there is annexed to such statement an approval of the account signed by the director of the welfare board or his authorized representative.
(c) Any balance of assistance payments remaining in the hands of a representative payee at the time of his discharge from office, or at the time of discontinuance of public assistance, shall be repaid to the welfare board by such representative payee.
(d) Should any representative payee die while in office, his personal representative shall file a statement of account and make disposition of any balance of assistance payments as provided in this section.
L.1964, c. 155, s. 6.