EXPLAINING STATE FOOD STAMP CASELOAD VARIANCE - DOES STATE ADMINISTRATION MATTER

The food stamp program has been more closely controlled by the federal government than most other public assistance program. However states have retained a degree of discretionary decision-making authority via administration of the food stamp program. Using a multiple-regression model, this study examines the influence of state administrative actio ns upon state food stamp caseloads. Both access to food stamp applicat ion offices and the we of joint applications (simultaneous application for Aid to Families with Dependent Children and food stamps) are foun d to be determinants of variance in state food stamp caseloads. Thus, devolution of public assistance policy to state governments could resu lt in unequal treatment of individuals who are eligible for public ass istance benefits.