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Millions of families in the United States could face a drastic reduction in their access to food if the Republican legislative proposal is approved, which includes the largest cut in the history of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. The plan would reduce federal funding for the program by nearly 30% by 2034, which is equivalent to a loss of approximately $300 billion.
The impact would be devastating. SNAP currently helps more than 40 million people, including families with children, people with disabilities and the elderly. "House Republicans' plan would eliminate food assistance for millions of people who are already struggling to afford high grocery prices," warned Ty Jones Cox, vice president of food assistance policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP).
Who would be the most affected?
The most significant changes would come in the form of new work requirements to access SNAP. The new conditions would extend the requirements to people between 55 and 64 years of age, as well as parents with children between seven and 18 years of age, excluding only those with children under seven. In addition, the possibility for states to request waivers in regions with high unemployment would be restricted, limiting them to counties with rates above 10%.
These measures would directly affect 5.4 million people, including 4 million children. An estimated 1.8 million would lose access to benefits altogether, while another 3.6 million would receive less help. Families with children would lose an average of $229 per month.
States would be required to fund a portion of the cost of benefits, at least 5% starting in 2028, a figure that could rise to 25% if the state has a high rate of payment errors. In addition, states would have to cover 75% of istrative costs, a significant increase from the current 50%.
This shift in responsibility to the state level could lead to a series of local cuts. Some states could tighten enrollment requirements, reduce benefits or even drop out of the program altogether, as they are not legally required to participate in SNAP.
The cuts would not only affect direct beneficiaries. SNAP is a key economic tool that drives local spending. Every dollar invested in SNAP generates approximately $1.54 in economic activity. Grocery stores, especially in rural and low-income communities, rely heavily on customers who use these benefits.
The National Association of Independent Food Retailers warned that the cuts would put more than 388,000 jobs and $20 billion in wages at risk. "SNAP is not just food aid. It is an economic engine that sustains jobs and businesses in our communities," said Stephanie Johnson, the group's vice president.
If implemented, the proposed cuts would mark a historic setback in the fight against hunger in the U.S. The elimination of funds and the imposition of additional barriers put at risk not only the food security of millions, but also the economic stability of entire communities.