(a) In this section, “standard utility allowance” means a Maryland Energy Assistance Program payment to a household that is at least $21 per year.

(b) (1) There is a Heat and Eat Program within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in the Department.

(2) The purpose of the Heat and Eat Program is to expand food access to households that are receiving or eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.

(c) (1) A household is eligible to participate in the Heat and Eat Program if the household is eligible to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits under State and federal law.

(2) In determining the eligibility of a household to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, the Department shall apply a standard utility allowance to the shelter deduction that is used for the purpose of determining countable gross income for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligibility.

(d) The Department shall adopt regulations:

(1) to verify household eligibility for participation in the Heat and Eat Program; and

(2) otherwise necessary to carry out this section.