The Republican plan to cut government spending might result in food budget cuts for almost 22 million households.
To save the government money, Republicans are exploring a number of social program changes, including altering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program’s (SNAP) payout calculation.
Politico first received a list of spending reform options being discussed by House Republicans, which included a decrease to SNAP that would reduce benefits overall.
By altering the formula used to determine SNAP benefits, the reform would save $247 billion over ten years, or around 20%. With a total of over $5 trillion, it is among the biggest reduction on the list.
The report might not be as representative of what Republicans would accomplish in reality as it is of how hard it will be for them to implement the drastic budget cutbacks that billionaire Elon Musk and the most outspoken far-right politicians have in mind.
Even among House Republicans, several of the cuts—such as the modification to SNAP benefits—are probably going to be controversial.
In a statement released on Friday, Representative Angie Craig (D-Minn.) blasted the idea, claiming that it would not only deprive hungry children of food but also reduce demand for the goods that our farmers grow, manufacturers package, truckers transport, and grocery store employees put on the shelves.
Republicans have long pushed for changes to SNAP, which gives 22 million households an average of more than $350 a month.
Republicans have long complained that the program discourages people from obtaining available employment and promotes lethargy. The benefits can be used to purchase groceries.
Republicans asked that Democrats agree to tighter job requirements for the program while easing eligibility rules for veterans and homeless individuals during a 2023 budget stalemate.
Republicans have trouble agreeing on more significant program cuts in prior years.
Republicans on Capitol Hill are forced to search elsewhere for savings since President-elect Donald Trump has ruled out cutting Social Security and Medicare.
Additionally, the menu that was distributed this month calls for major changes to Medicaid, which covers Americans with low incomes for medical care.
The US Department of Agriculture’s formula for determining benefit levels, the frugal food plan, would be reformed as a result of the SNAP cut.
In 2021, President Joe Biden revised the frugal food plan to enhance SNAP payments, therefore permanentizing a temporary increase implemented in response to the coronavirus outbreak, to the vehement chagrin of Republicans.
Reversing Biden’s rise would result in an overall 20% decrease in average benefits.
Although he did not advocate doing away with the increase, House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.) said that future administrations would be unable to alter benefits in such a significant way.
The SNAP decrease was allegedly suggested by House Budget Committee Chair Jodey Arrington (R-Texas).
Trump also campaigned in Congress to tighten qualifying standards for SNAP during his first term.
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.