SPRINGFIELD — College students experiencing hunger may soon have relief, thanks to an initiative led by State Senator Graciela Guzmán to expand eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits in Illinois.

“Students facing food insecurity may not be able to perform as well as their peers academically, restricting them from the same achievements and career opportunities they could reach if they had access to basic needs,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “Senate Bill 1298 would ensure no student goes hungry, helping all students achieve more academically and for their future.” 

According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, nearly two-thirds of students in the U.S. who are eligible for SNAP are not receiving benefits. Many students are deterred from applying because they assume or are advised incorrectly that they are not eligible. Others who do apply are rejected in error because the rules for students are so complex.

Without this initiative, students are not eligible for SNAP unless they meet special conditions, such as working at least 20 hours a week at a paid job and attending school. Senate Bill 1298 would streamline and expand eligibility for SNAP benefits, allowing all students at public colleges and universities in Illinois to benefit from the program, provided they meet income and other eligibility requirements. 

“Far too many students in Illinois are struggling with food insecurity, unsure of where their next meal will come from as they work to advance their education,” said Kate Maehr, the Executive Director and CEO of the Greater Chicago Food Depository. “Many are prevented from turning to SNAP, our nation’s largest nutrition assistance program, due to burdensome eligibility requirements for students. Senator Guzmán’s bill will modernize SNAP in Illinois, enabling an estimated 98,000 income-eligible public college and university students to access this critical support.” 

“Many college students, especially those from low-income families, must take out loans and sacrifice to pursue higher education. Being able to pay for food should not be one of them, but it is all too common among working scholars trying to make ends meet and, in turn, having detrimental impacts on their physical and mental health,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “By expanding access to SNAP, students will not have to choose between purchasing textbooks or groceries for the week, and instead be able to access nutritional food to sustain their brain and encourage learning.” 

Senate Bill 1298 passed the Senate on Wednesday. It now goes to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

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