New Laws To Impact Thousands Of PA Residents

PENNSYLVANIA — Several new laws approved at the federal and city levels will have an effect on thousands of Pennsylvania residents.

They involve Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, street racing and Philadelphia businesses.

The details:

PHILADELPHIA BUSINESS CURFEWInitially enacted in the Kensington neighborhood, a new ordinance expands the 11:59 curfew has been expanded to Germantown, Fairhill, Hunting Park, Frankford and Mount Airy for all businesses that lack a liquor license, a drive-through or a gas station. The curfew will be in effect from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.

Any shops that stay open passed 11 p.m. could face fines of up to $1,000.

STREET RACING

This has been a problem for years on Broad Street in Philadelphia and other Pennsylvania streets for years. The new law increases the fine for a a first offense from $200 to $500. A second offense could carry a $2,000 fine, six months in prison and a six-month vehicle impoundment.

SNAP

Under new federal rules, to keep or become eligible for SNAP benefits, certain people will have to meet SNAP work requirements that include working, volunteering, or participating in an education or training program for at least 20 hours a week or 80 hours each month.

These rules apply to those who are 18-54 years old, do not have a dependent child and-or are considered physically or mentally unable to work.

Beginning November 1, the expanded work requirements will be expanded to those who are:

• Are between 18-64 years old;
• Do not have a dependent child under 14 years old;
• Are considered physically and mentally able to work

In addition, being a veteran, homeless, or a current or former foster youth age 18-24 will no longer be an exemption.