The Virginia Poverty Law Center asserts that the requested changes to 22 VAC 40-601-50 will negatively impact many low-income Virginians.  Denying SNAP applications after 30 days may push many applicants away from the program and stop many denied applicants from reapplying.  Some applicants who are given an initial denial notice may be less likely to reapply, even after receiving the requested information.  Many individuals who apply for SNAP benefits are in desperate need of help, and to put up an additional barrier for these individuals is not good policy and is unreasonable. 

Furthermore, the SNAP program requires that caseworkers also assist applicants with verifying information, provided the applicant is cooperating with the agency.  If the application is denied due to lack of verification the applicant loses their right to this assistance. 

Although the change may help the Department of Social Services, it may also hurt some applicants and we cannot forget about those who really need this assistance. 

Thanks.    

Ty Jones

Virginia Poverty Law Center