Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) allows states to consider cost of living, wages, and other local economic conditions when determining people’s eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

With BBCE, SNAP applicants have a better chance of getting food assistance. But it’s hardly an automatic pathway. There’s still a rigorous process to access benefits.

The Trump Administration’s proposal to end BBCE claims to be “closing a loophole” that makes it “easy” to get SNAP. But that’s simply untrue. The reality is that ending BBCE would take away food assistance from people who’ve proven they need it through a robust application process.

To learn more, read this fact sheet.