The food stamp program has been more closely controlled by the federal government than most other public assistance programs. 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 actions upon state food stamp caseloads. Both access to food stamp application offices and the use of joint applications (simultaneous application for Aid to Families with Dependent Children and food stamps) are found to be determinants of variance in state food stamp caseloads. Thus, devolution of public assistance policy to state governments could result in unequal treatment of individuals who are eligible for public assistance benefits.
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