Sometimes it’s as easy as just going into a grocery store, picking our favourite food items, paying and the leaving right? However, for approximately 40 million Americans (or more), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or better known as food stamps, is an important for of food support. There are many families who rely on SNAP benefits to put food on the table, however, there is a new law that brings about change in many states.
What the Law Would Do
This new law makes changes to how SNAP is funded. As it stands, the federal government pay for most of the benefits and running the program with states, the new law will:
- States would pay much more for the administrative costs of SNAP, as much as 75% instead of the current 50%.
- In order to be eligible for food stamps, more individuals would need to demonstrate that they are volunteering or working a certain amount of hours.
In short, the federal government is shifting more of the responsibility and the cost onto the states.
Why States Are Worried
There are many state leaders who are afraid that these changes may put pressure on their existing budgets. The SNAP program is already quite expensive and if states have to cover more of the cost, they may to compromise on who qualifies and potentially make the program harder to access.
Which States Could Be Affected
According to data, up to 43 states could have potential disruptions in their SNAP programs if they are unable to afford the new costs. It’s still unlikely whether benefits may be cut completely, but states may have to reduce benefits or make changes.
That could mean:
- Delays in payments.
- Lower monthly benefit amounts.
- Fewer people qualifying.
- Stricter rules for keeping benefits.
Who Would Feel the Impact Most
If the new law goes into effect as written, the people hit hardest would likely be:
- Families with children.
- Seniors and people with disabilities.
- Low-wage workers with irregular hours.
- Immigrants under certain legal protections
Sadly for these groups, even minor budget cuts could significantly affect them.
Supporters vs. Critics
In every aspect, there are supporters and opposers:
Supporters of this are in favour and believe that it is a step in the right direction. The want states to take more responsibility of running the program. They also note that pushing people to work will make them more responsible and decrease the need for them to rely on food stamps.
Opposing to this, critics argue that many states do not have the funds to cover the additional costs without compromising on other services. They also highlight that families already struggle with grocery costs and could potentially lose access to the SNAP program as a result of the changes.
What Happens Next
There is time to plan as these changes will not be effective immediately. They will be phased in gradually and states are expected to be compliant by 2027/2028.
The Bigger Picture
The SNAP program is more than just another government program. It provides assistance to millions of American families, by helping them food on the table. This program does not only benefit citizens but also assists in local business development, as the food stamps is used is local grocery shops.
As it stands, the future of SNAP is uncertain in many states. However, there are millions of people who will be impacted by the new law. Regardless of what changes be made and what are the new requirements, millions of people will be affected. Recipients must stay informed with verified information.