HB9 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tommy Hanes

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, able bodied adults without dependents, work requirements imposed to receive benefits

Summary

HB9 would end Alabama's ability to seek federal waivers for ABAWD SNAP requirements and instead require able-bodied adults without dependents to meet work, training, or volunteer obligations with limited exemptions.

What This Bill Does

The bill prevents the Commissioner of the Department of Human Resources from requesting a waiver of the federal work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) who receive or apply for SNAP. It requires ABAWDs to participate in minimum work activities, provide documentation of work training, or engage in volunteer community service, with some limited exemptions. It defines ABAWDs as adults aged 18-49 with no dependents and not disabled, and it sets an effective date a few months after passage.

Who It Affects

• Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18-49 who are SNAP applicants or recipients and must meet work, training, or volunteer requirements (or qualify for exemptions).
• The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), which would administer the new requirements and be barred from seeking federal waivers for ABAWDs.

Key Provisions

• Prohibits the Commissioner of the Department of Human Resources from requesting a waiver of federal work requirements for ABAWDs eligible for SNAP.
• Requires ABAWDs to participate in minimum work requirements, provide documentation of engaging in work training, or participate in volunteer community service, with limited exemptions.
• Defines ABAWD as an individual 18-49 years old with no dependents and not disabled.
• Effective date: the act becomes law on the first day of the third month after its passage and approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Food Stamps