CalFresh: data sharing.

Assembly Member Wicks proposes modifying CalFresh's data-sharing framework to restrict information exchange exclusively between state-level public entities, replacing current provisions that allow both state and local agency participation. The legislation defines strict parameters for data usage, limiting shared information to what is necessary for conducting benefit outreach, facilitating enrollment, measuring program utilization, and assessing CalFresh's impact on Californians' health and financial well-being.

The bill enumerates specific state entities authorized to participate in data sharing, including departments focused on health and human services, education, employment, housing, corrections, and veterans affairs. All data exchanges must comply with federal law and state privacy protections, including the Information Practices Act, Confidentiality of Medical Information Act, and student privacy regulations. The Department of Social Services must designate an executive-level employee to oversee implementation and report directly to the department director.

Under the proposed changes, "public benefits" encompasses educational, public health, and poverty-alleviating services administered by state entities. The bill maintains existing requirements for measuring program outcomes through data on earnings, income, resources, food purchasing power, and other indicators of participant well-being, while establishing new guardrails around how this information can be collected and used.