A new legislative proposal in the US aims to ease the financial burden for low-income students enrolled in career and technical education (CTE) programs, ensuring they can continue receiving food assistance while gaining work experience. Introduced by Senator Jon Husted (R-Ohio) on September 4, the Food Eligibility for Education and Development (FEED) Act addresses a crucial gap in the existing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) rules.
The bill proposes a change that would allow students participating in approved CTE programs to work part-time without having their earnings count against their families’ eligibility for SNAP benefits. This move is seen as an important step towards creating more supportive pathways for young adults trying to balance education, work, and financial stability.
Supporting Career and Technical Education Students
The FEED Act is designed to assist students in CTE programs, which typically combine academic learning with practical, hands-on training in fields such as health sciences, advanced manufacturing, and information technology. These programs prepare students for careers in high-demand, high-skill industries, often through internships or apprenticeships that provide valuable workplace experience.
However, under the current SNAP regulations, students enrolled in such programs face a dilemma. According to Sen. Husted, low-income students who work part-time while studying often see their earnings counted as household income, jeopardizing their family’s eligibility for food assistance. This situation has created a financial hurdle for many young adults who are attempting to improve their career prospects but risk losing essential support during their studies.
The proposed legislation seeks to address this issue by ensuring that students’ part-time earnings do not affect the SNAP benefits their families receive. This would enable them to continue their education without the constant worry of losing their food assistance. The FEED Act acknowledges that CTE students are working hard to prepare for long-term careers, and this change would provide a crucial safety net.
Impact on Low-Income Families and Education Access
The bill’s introduction comes as the broader conversation about education, employment, and welfare reform continues to evolve. CTE programs are an essential part of the American educational landscape, providing pathways to well-paying jobs for students who may not pursue traditional four-year college degrees. Yet, for many low-income families, the lack of financial stability can be a significant barrier to enrolling in these programs.
By offering protection for SNAP benefits, the FEED Act aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for students. As Husted pointed out in a press release, the bill “corrects outdated SNAP laws” and ensures that students enrolled in CTE programs can continue working towards high-skill, high-demand careers without sacrificing their family’s basic needs.
The bill has already been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, where it will be reviewed further. Should it pass, it would likely provide a much-needed boost for thousands of students across the country working to better their futures through education.
