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H.R. 3943: Opportunity To Address College Hunger Act

This bill, titled the Opportunity To Address College Hunger Act, aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 by enhancing communication about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for college students who are eligible for federal work-study programs. Here is a summary of the key provisions of the bill:

Notification Requirement

Institutions of higher education that receive federal grants would be required to notify students receiving work-study assistance about their potential eligibility for SNAP. This information should be communicated through electronic means, such as email.

Details of the Notification

The notification must be designed by the Secretary of Education in collaboration with the Secretary of Agriculture.
The notification will include eligibility requirements for SNAP, specific to each student's state of residence.
Students will receive contact information for their local SNAP office, where they can learn more about applying for benefits.

Documentation of Eligibility

The notification sent to students must include an official document that confirms their participation in the federally financed work-study program. This document would serve to demonstrate the student's eligibility for SNAP, helping to ensure that they are not excluded from benefits based on work-study participation.

Guidance for Institutions

The Secretary of Education will provide guidance to states and educational institutions on identifying and communicating with students who are likely eligible for SNAP, particularly those participating in state or federally financed work-study programs.

Definitions

Eligible Student: A student receiving work-study assistance or a student eligible for a Federal Pell Grant.
SNAP: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program as defined in the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008.

Implementation

By implementing these changes, the bill seeks to ensure that eligible college students are made aware of and can access nutrition assistance, which could help alleviate hunger among students, thereby supporting their educational success.