Requirement to release funds

(a) Immediate obligation of funds Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of Agriculture shall, immediately upon enactment of this Act, obligate and make available all funds appropriated by Congress for— (1) the supplemental nutrition assistance program; and (2) the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. (b) Prohibition on withholding No officer or employee of the executive branch, including the Office of Management and Budget, or U.S. Department of Agriculture may withhold, delay, or otherwise impede the release or obligation of such funds for any reason not explicitly authorized by statute. (c) Requirement to enroll (1) Continued enrollment The Secretary of Agriculture shall ensure that, all State agencies administering SNAP or WIC continue to accept, process, and approve applications for individuals and households that meet the statutory eligibility requirements for such programs. (2) Access to benefits Individuals determined eligible under paragraph (1) shall receive benefits as soon as funds are available, and no later than five days after the Secretary obligates the funds made available under subsection (a). (3) Prohibition on enrollment freeze No Federal or State official may institute an enrollment freeze, waiting list, or other restriction on participation in SNAP or WIC due to any delay or withholding of funds.