CalFresh recipients, counties brace for impact from new eligibility requirements

HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of Californians could lose access to food assistance provided by CalFresh in the coming months, even though they could still be eligible under new work requirements that took effect Monday. 

The new rules focus on people considered “able bodied adults without dependents,” which are referred to in the program as ABAWDs. The requirements will force all recipients to go through lengthier recertifications to prove they are still eligible or exempt under the new policy, which requires 80 hours of work per month for anyone able to work under the age of 65 years old.