SNAP Rule #227A - Noncitizen Language

Date posted:

Attachment(s):

10-144 C.M.R. Ch. 301; SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE Program (SNAP) RULES

ALPHA INDEX, TABLE OF CONTENTS, SECTIONS 1, 111-2, 222-5, 222-6,

444-1, 444-4, 444-8, 555-3, and 999-1

SNAP RULE #227A – NON CITIZEN LANGUAGE

The adopted rule clarifies program requirements in Sections 1, 111-2, 222-5, 222-6, 444-1, 444-4, 444-8, 555-3 for SNAP applicants and recipients as well as Department staff pertaining to citizenship and noncitizen eligibility consistent with 7 C.F.R. § 273.2(f)(ii). Throughout the adopted rule’s open sections and Table of Contents “Noncitizens” replaces “aliens.” The adopted rule makes continued non-substantive changes to improve the readability and inclusivity of the manual. In addition, the adopted rule removes Code of Federal Register (C.F.R.) citations in the headers of open sections as these citations are unnecessary and are identified within the sections as applicable.

Changes to the current rule update the open sections consistent with the recent change of the terms “Food Supplement” and “Food Supplement Program” to “Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program” and by extension, their associated abbreviations to “SNAP” or other substitutable terms. These changes are consistent with the terminology used in federal law and regulation as well as signage and other materials seen throughout the state and nation. Further, P.L. 2021 c. 398 Part OO made this change throughout Maine’s revised statutes. These changes are reflected in all uses of the terms and abbreviations in sections included in this rulemaking (unless they refer only to a time prior to the statutory change).

The rule change updates this manual’s open sections to improve readability and inclusivity. (E.g. “Centers for the treatment of substance use disorders” replaces “Substance Abuse Treatment Centers.”) The rule’s open sections also convert gender specific terms to gender neutral terms.

Consistent with 7 C.F.R. § 273.4(b)(1), Section 1 is updated based on the Interagency Notice providing guidance for compliance with PRWORA section 404 published on September 28, 2000. In addition, Section 1, 5(A) clarifies Nondiscrimination language consistent with 7 C.F.R. § 272.6(a) and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Further, Section 1, 5(B) is updated consistent with 7 C.F.R. Part 15 provides clarification as to how to file a complaint with the USDA.

The adopted rule provides clarification for existing program eligibility requirements for U.S. citizens and noncitizens with significant updates to Section 111-2. In addition, consistent with 7 C.F.R. § 273.2(f)(1)(ii)(A) and 42 U.S.C. 1320b-7 the adopted rule changes clarifies verification processes and application processing timeframes.

Consistent with 7 C.F.R. § 273.4(c)(3)(iv) Section 444-1 clarifies Households with Special Circumstances and those with sponsors.

The adopted rule’s definition of Alien directs readers to the definition of Noncitizen and Sponsored Alien is changed to Sponsored Noncitizens.

Eligibility for citizens of Compact of Free Association nations is effectuated consistent with the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024.

This rule will not have an adverse impact on municipalities or small businesses.

Statutory Authority: 22 M.R.S. §§ 42(1), 3104(13), and 3104-A

Effective Date: April 8, 2025

Office: Office for Family Independence

Comment deadline:

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