Federal Rules to Strip CalFresh from 665,500 Californians

Federal rules taking effect in June will strip CalFresh benefits from 665,500 Californians by expanding work requirements and eliminating exemptions. - The new rules expand ABAWD definition to ages 18–64 and require 20 hours weekly of work or school.

- Exemptions for veterans, unhoused individuals, and former foster youth are eliminated. - Advocates warn food banks will face increased strain as demand rises.

- Assemblymember Lee is requesting $100 million for a CalFresh fruit and vegetable program to mitigate impacts. The state has also allocated funds for CalFood and expanded CFAP to noncitizens aged 55+.