CalFresh: data sharing.

Assembly Member Wicks' CalFresh data-sharing legislation modifies how California's State Department of Social Services coordinates information exchange related to the state's food assistance program. The measure revises existing law by removing the current authorization for public entities to share data directly with the department.

Under the amended framework, the department maintains its authority to identify data-sharing opportunities with state and local public entities for purposes including CalFresh administration, participation tracking, impact measurement, and coordination of services for low-income individuals. The department must designate an executive-level employee to report to the Director of Social Services on the implementation of these provisions.

The revision centralizes control over data-sharing initiatives within the department rather than allowing bi-directional data exchange between the department and other public entities. While the bill does not alter CalFresh benefits or eligibility requirements, it modifies the administrative structure through which program-related information flows between government agencies.