In a pivotal move to bolster support for disaster victims, the California Assembly Human Services Committee discussed SB 739, a bill aimed at enhancing access to CalFresh benefits during emergencies. The legislation, presented by a committee member, seeks to empower the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) to assess whether counties affected by federally declared disasters can provide timely assistance to those in need.

Disaster CalFresh offers a crucial lifeline, providing eligible families with a month’s worth of benefits on an EBT card, which can amount to $292. This support is vital for families struggling to cover basic expenses like food and shelter in the aftermath of a disaster. The bill was inspired by recent challenges faced in Los Angeles County, where infrastructure damage can hinder access to essential services.

Yesenia Jimenez, a senior policy associate with the End Poverty and Child Poverty California coalition, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the importance of communication and coordination between state and county agencies. She highlighted that many families lose everything during disasters, and the current systems often fail to respond quickly enough to their needs. SB 739 aims to ensure that the CDSS can identify potential service breakdowns early and provide necessary support to local workers.

The bill has already garnered bipartisan support in the state senate, reflecting a collective commitment to protecting vulnerable families during crises. Assemblymember Tangipa expressed gratitude for the bill's focus on future disaster responses, reinforcing the urgency of ensuring that no family falls through the cracks when they need help the most.

As the committee moves forward, the anticipated outcome is a strengthened safety net for Californians facing the devastating impacts of disasters, ensuring that essential resources remain accessible in times of dire need.