In 2012, Connecticut was ranked last among states for processing SNAP applications in a timely manner. Recently, Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Roderick Bremby outlined some of the changes the state has instituted to improve the system. Insufficient staffing and antiquated technology combined to slow processing of SNAP and other assistance applications, Bremby said. Now, People contacting DSS can call one central number and get help from numerous workers, instead of waiting to talk to a designated caseworker. Eligibility for SNAP, Medicaid, and other assistance programs can be checked online, and the state is working toward accepting applications online. The state is also developing a new document processing center that will prioritize SNAP applications. The backlog of applications is being dealt with – there were 20,000 pending applications in April, and that number has dropped to 3,000. Bremby, however, acknowledged that the agency could be doing better.
Source: Food Research Action Council, 7/22/13, SNAP In CT
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