Tennessee has changed its SNAP eligibility rules, a move experts said could help more working families qualify for food assistance.

The Tennessee Department of Human Services recently implemented a policy known as Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, or BBCE. State officials said the change streamlines the SNAP application process and removes asset limits for some households.

Supporters said the change could help families who make too much to qualify under the old rules but still struggle to afford groceries and other necessities.

“What it is doing is expanding the capacity to qualify for benefits to families that have larger incomes,” said Elena Delavega, a professor of social work at the University of Memphis.

Delavega said many of the people who stand to benefit are already working but still have difficulty making ends meet.

"This allows people who are low income, those people who are making too much money to be below the poverty threshold, but they’re still not making enough money to actually be able to be OK or meet their needs," Delavega said. "They are now able to access benefits."

According to TDHS, the policy applies to certain households connected to state assistance programs. The department said several factors still determine SNAP eligibility and encourages anyone who believes they may qualify to apply.

Delavega said the change expands who can receive help.

“It really does expand who can get help,” she said. “So before it was 130%. Now the total household gross monthly income can be up to 200.