Texas food banks are speaking out against a GOP-led House plan to cut billions in SNAP benefits and make states bear more of the cost, warning it would deepen hunger across the state and country.
Food banks throughout Texas are expressing serious concerns about a proposal from House Republicans to reduce funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by billions and transfer financial responsibilities to state governments.
On Monday, the GOP-led House Agricultural Committee revealed a proposal that forms part of a larger strategy to reduce federal spending to facilitate tax cuts supported by former President Donald Trump.
The proposed plan includes significant measures to address discrepancies in the distribution of SNAP benefits. States identified with elevated "error rates" in aid distribution would be required to contribute up to 25% of SNAP benefits.
Meanwhile, states demonstrating lower error rates would still be obligated to cover 5% of the costs. The legislation introduces new work requirements for older adults and parents of young children, while also eliminating eligibility for specific immigrant groups.
Celia Cole, the CEO of Feeding Texas, stated that the suggested $230 billion cut would mark “the largest rollback of food assistance in our nation’s history.” A warning has been issued that Texas could incur more than $1 billion in additional costs each year, placing a strain on state budgets and exacerbating food insecurity issues.
Cole stated, “During periods when Americans most need SNAP, states will be least prepared to provide assistance.”
Brian Greene, the CEO of Houston Food Bank, stated that the cuts “won’t just hurt those in deep need,” but will also burden middle-class families.
Members of the Democratic Party committee have described the proposed plan as devastating. Estimates suggest it could increase monthly food expenses by $175 for a family of four.
Currently, SNAP assists more than 42 million Americans across the country.
