Moderates fight back as GOP crafts major food assistance changes
Proposed reductions in federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are the latest flash point for Republicans as they work through sticking points on the “big beautiful bill” of President Trump’s legislative priorities.
SNAP benefits, formerly known as food stamps, are currently funded entirely by the federal government, while costs of administering it are split between the federal government and states that operate it.
But House Republicans are considering proposals to shift a portion of the cost of SNAP benefits to states as they aim to meet cost savings targets for the House Agriculture Committee’s portion of the massive bill. Lawmakers are considering proposals to shift from around 10 percent up to as much as a quarter of the benefit costs, one GOP source told The Hill, starting in fiscal year 2028.
While Trump and top Republicans have said they do not want to see cuts to SNAP benefits, cost sharing would be a major overhaul of the program that opponents argue could strain state budgets and lead them to reduce benefits or eligibility. The prospect is fueling Democratic messaging against the bill — and making moderate Republicans and those in competitive districts squirm.
Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.)........
© The Hill
