The House Agriculture Committee has voted to move forward with a bill that proposes significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This is part of efforts aimed at reducing federal spending in order to support President Trump’s legislative priorities.
The proposed legislation seeks to help cover some expenses related to SNAP benefits, instruct states to refine eligibility criteria, and curb potential increases in future federal revenue from the program.
Next up is the Budget Committee, which will integrate this bill along with other initiatives that reflect Trump’s broader priorities.
This new bill assigns states responsibility for a portion of SNAP benefits, with the contribution amount based on the state’s payment error rate. States demonstrating lower error rates will be required to cover 5% of SNAP’s profits, while those with higher rates will need to contribute 25%.
Additionally, the plan tightens work requirements for healthy adults without dependents. It raises the qualifying age range for these individuals from 18 to 54-64 years.
Republicans on the committee aim to cut over $230 billion, aligning with other GOP lawmakers’ efforts to reduce federal spending in pursuit of funding for Trump’s initiatives.
Democrats have criticized this legislation, suggesting it could pressure states to reduce support for their residents. They also argue it may complicate the passage of a bipartisan farm bill this year.
“Rather than collaborating with Democrats to address costs associated with President Trump’s tariffs, House Republicans have opted to undermine support for SNAP, which 42 million Americans rely on for their meals,” a Democratic member stated.
