Washington Farmers and Lawmakers Rally Against GOP SNAP Changes
October 5, 2023—In a show of unity against proposed changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Wisconsin farmer Kat Becker joined Democratic lawmakers on Capitol Hill to voice concerns over potential modifications that could expand work requirements for federal nutrition assistance recipients.
Becker emphasized the interconnectedness of SNAP and the agricultural economy, stating, “SNAP impacts the farm economy.” She highlighted that SNAP dollars used at farmers’ markets greatly benefit local produce and employment.
The Republican proposal aims to expand work requirements to include older adults and parents with school-age children, a move critics say would jeopardize food assistance for many low-income Americans. Katie Bergh, a senior policy analyst at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP), noted that history shows such requirements do little to improve employment opportunities and often result in individuals losing vital food assistance.
In Wisconsin alone, CBPP estimates that around 71,000 individuals could be at risk of losing their benefits if the proposal passes. Becker explained how cuts to SNAP could reduce household benefits, impacting the overall community.
Rep. Angie Craig (D-Minn.) condemned the proposed $230 billion cuts as detrimental to vulnerable populations, stating, “Cutting SNAP will result in children, seniors, veterans, and disabled Americans going without food.” She warned that such cuts would also harm farmers and jobs across the food supply chain.
First-term Congressman Tony Wied (R-Green Bay) defended the GOP’s approach, asserting that work requirements are a "commonsense" strategy to encourage self-sufficiency among able-bodied adults.
As discussions continue in the House Agriculture Committee, many worry that proposed changes could lead to a cascade of negative effects for both low-income families and local economies.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
