The Senate Agriculture Committee is continuing negotiations on the House version of the Farm Bill, with Democrats led by Amy Klobuchar opposing provisions from H.R. 1 that would shift part of SNAP’s costs to states. Some Republicans, including Roger Marshall, have indicated they may be open to revisiting the policy. These continuining negotiations and important marker bills are expected to be discussed by the end of July. Because any Farm Bill needs 60 votes in the Senate, bipartisan agreement will be necessary. Advocacy groups are encouraging supporters to contact lawmakers and highlight concerns about the impact of SNAP reductions.
How Does Cutting SNAP Harm the Economy?
Cuts to SNAP have significant negative impacts on the farmers who grow the food, manufacturers that package it, truckers who distribute it and stores and small businesses in our communities that sell it:
- SNAP increases economic activity: Every dollar spent on SNAP creates approximately $1.50 in additional economic activity, generating business and economic activity in local communities, farms, and our farmers markets
- SNAP promotes employment: In 2020, SNAP expenses helped create about 45,000 jobs in businesses including as agriculture, food production, transportation, and local government services
- SNAP boosts critical industries: In 2020, the program supported over 200,000 employment in the grocery sector, generating more than $6.7 billion in salaries for workers and communities.
How to Support this Issue - Sign On Now! Send a Letter to Your Representative
NOFA-NJ encourages community members, farmers, and advocates to contact their elected officials and urge them to reverse potential cuts to SNAP, emphasizing the program’s critical role in reducing hunger, supporting working families, and strengthening local economies. Please utilize the resources below to learn more:
Food Research & Action Center: Urge Congress to Take First Step to Repeal Harmful SNAP Cuts in the Next Appropriation Bill
National Young Farmers Coalition: National Young Farmers Coalition | Urge the Senate to Build a Better Farm Bill!
National Organic Coalition: Action Alerts — National Organic Coalition
Organic Farmers Association: Tell Congress to Support Organic Farmers with a Strong Farm Bill
National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition: NSAC’S Blog – National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition
NOFA-NJ is in direct contact with New Jersey legislators regarding concerns about the weak House Farm Bill. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact:
- Cali Alexander, Policy Chair: goatwell1@gmail.com
- Jamal Dundas, NOFA Legislative Intern: jamal.dundas2017@gmail.com