If the right-wing has its way, nutrition resources and the benefits they provide would be snatched away from children, families, older adults, and people with disabilities. Congressional leaders are looking to “fast track” budget legislation in the coming weeks that disproportionately benefits the wealthiest taxpayers. Two weeks ago, House Committee leaders discussed strategies to cut up to $250 billion from food assistance as part of their larger budget package. We cannot give handouts to the rich on the backs of the most vulnerable.
The proposal could lead to a 22% cut in SNAP by rescinding the most recent modest update of the Thrifty Food Plan―the program used to determine SNAP benefit amounts―and would negatively impact 41 million people per year. Let’s get specific: because of the update, benefits under the Thrifty Food Plan now average $6.20 per person per day. That’s the benefit level they want to slash.
Changes in SNAP proposed by the Republican Study Committee and Project 2025 include:
SNAP provides much more than just food assistance: It is a critical support system that promotes food security, economic well-being, and better health outcomes. The program plays a vital role in addressing hunger, reducing health care costs, and improving the long-term prospects of households with low incomes.
Cuts to SNAP would not only increase food insecurity but also shift costs to local governments and charities, which cannot fully meet the need. For example, while emergency food programs help, they only provide one meal for every nine meals that SNAP supplies. The proposed cuts would further strain food banks, food retailers, and those serving vulnerable populations.
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