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Protecting SNAP Benefits: COLAs Will Not Count as Income

This bill aims to protect access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for federal benefit recipients. The changes ensure that increases in benefits resulting from annual Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) will not be counted as income when determining SNAP eligibility or benefit levels. This allows citizens, particularly seniors and veterans, to retain their full food assistance even if their pensions or benefits increase.
Key points
Increases in federal benefits (like Social Security, Railroad Retirement, Veterans' benefits) due to Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) will be excluded from income calculations for SNAP eligibility.
Recipients of SNAP will be able to keep their food assistance benefits even if their nominal income rises due to COLA increases.
The law takes effect on October 1, 2027.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_6986
Sponsor: Rep. Moore, Gwen [D-WI-4]
Process start date: 2026-01-08
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

COLAs Don’t Count Act of 2026

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_6986.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2026-01-08.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Increases in federal benefits (like Social Security, Railroad Retirement, Veterans' benefits) due to Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) will be excluded from income calculations for SNAP eligibility.
  • Recipients of SNAP will be able to keep their food assistance benefits even if their nominal income rises due to COLA increases.
  • The law takes effect on October 1, 2027.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Moore, Gwen [D-WI-4].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-24.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Agriculture