CalFresh Update 2024-08: Compacts of Free Association (COFA) citizens
CalFresh Handbook
| Date | References | Clerical | Implementation |
| 09/24/24 | ACL 24-61 | N/A | Immediately |
Background
The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 (PRWORA) defines qualified non-citizens and outlines the eligibility for certain Federal Benefits. Some categories of non-citizens do not need to meet the 5-year residency requirement.
Changes
On March 9, 2024, the Consolidated Appropriations Act was signed into law and as a result, expanded the definition of qualified non-citizens. This amendment makes COFA citizens from the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau, who lawfully reside in the United States, eligible for CalFresh. COFA citizens are not subject to a waiting period.
COFA citizens who applied on or after March 9, 2024, and were denied for CalFresh may reapply to be determined eligible from the date of reapplication. In addition, those individuals who applied on or after March 9, 2024, and were denied may request a fair hearing within 90 days of the date of denial.
When the date of denial is:
- Within 30 days, the application must be reopened and processed according to this new policy.
- Over 30 days but within 90 days, the household may request a fair hearing.
- Over 90 days, the household must reapply.
Client Communication
COFA citizens denied due to non-qualifying non-citizen/immigration status on or after March 9, 2024, have been informed via text they may be newly eligible based on updated policy.
Department of Employment & Benefits Services
Contact Person(s): Ana Guitron, BPIS