Impact of House Reconciliation Bill on SNAP Benefits
The House reconciliation bill on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) would impact millions of recipients by introducing work requirements and reducing federal funding, contrary to some leaders' statements. The bill is estimated to affect about 3.2 million people by cutting off their SNAP benefits entirely and millions more through reductions in benefits. The bill also shifts more financial responsibility to states.
Key Points
- 3.2 million people estimated to lose all SNAP benefits due to work requirements
- States would have to cover more benefit costs if their payment error rates exceed 6%
- House bill caps annual increases to Thrifty Food Plan and eliminates internet costs as household expense deduction for benefit calculations
Pros
- Addresses elements of fraud, waste, and abuse in the federal SNAP program
- Expands work requirements to qualify for SNAP benefits
Cons
- 3.2 million people estimated to lose all of their SNAP benefits
- Reduces federal funding of the SNAP program by about $286 billion over a 10-year period
- Shifts more financial responsibility to states