Republicans in the House and Senate are proposing to slash more than $230 billion from SNAP and school nutrition programs in order to fund more tax handouts for the wealthy and billion-dollar corporations. But it’s far from a done deal.
SNAP is not only our most effective anti-hunger program, it plays a crucial role in reducing poverty and improving health and economic outcomes. It’s also linked to better education outcomes and self-sufficiency, and plays an important role in supporting rural communities.
SNAP is one of the most cost-effective government programs in existence. Every dollar spent on SNAP generates $1.80 in local communities. Cuts to SNAP and school nutrition programs will have devastating consequences for generations to come.
Individual states currently pay a portion of the cost of administering SNAP, while the federal government pays the actual benefits. Implementing a $230 billion cut could force states to take on a portion of the cost of nutrition benefits for the first time, a radical change in the program that could lead to drastic cuts, increasing wait times for approval for benefits, or put a huge squeeze on states leading to slashed investments in other programs.
Cutting SNAP (and Medicaid, another right-wing target) also makes it harder for eligible families to obtain free or reduced-price school meals, summer food assistance for school-aged children (Summer EBT), and WIC benefits. School meal programs and Summer EBT automatically enroll eligible children using SNAP and Medicaid, while WIC agencies use automated systems to check for SNAP or Medicaid eligibility. In addition, the House Budget Committee has put forth numerous specific budget-cutting proposals, including a $12 billion cut to free school breakfast and lunch programs, affecting 24,000 schools nationwide.
Cutting funding for nutrition programs in order to pay for some of Trump’s $4.5 trillion tax handout―mostly to the wealthy and corporations―is an abomination.
How the New Congress Will Try to Use Budget Rules: A Practical Guide for Advocates to Protect Against Harsh Program Cuts and Bloated Tax Breaks.
Webinar recording: Budget Rules in the New Congress
The new Congress is expected to act quickly to approve a joint Budget Resolution, with special rules to make it easier to cut spending and taxes.
Advocates want the wealthy and corporations to pay their fair share in taxes, and want to protect health care, anti-hunger, and all the other services that people need. They need to know how the budget rules work – and the best strategies to prevent serious damage.
Please join the Coalition on Human Needs for a webinar with top experts on how federal budget rule work and on strategies for advocates. Presenters include:
Our experts will help you get past the jargon to learn the practical facts about budget resolutions and budget reconciliation – and the best strategies to deter the new Congress’ attempts to fast-track harmful legislation.