Selection on first-come, first-served basis

For each calendar year (beginning with 1998), from (and to the extent of) the amount of the allocation under subsection (c) for the State for the fiscal year ending in such calendar year, the State shall select qualifying individuals who apply for the assistance in the order in which they apply.

For calendar years after 1998, the State shall give preference to individuals who were provided such assistance (or other assistance described in section 1396a(a)(10)(E) of this title ) in the last month of the previous year and who continue to be (or become) qualifying individuals.