State and local governments warn new SNAP cost-sharing rules could impose billions in new spending, urging a delay due to fiscal risks from the shutdown.
WASHINGTON: State and local US governments have urged Congress to delay food aid provisions in President Donald Trump’s tax and spending bill.
The groups cite operational and cost concerns from the law, which shifts significant Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program costs to states.
More than 42 million Americans receive SNAP benefits, commonly known as food stamps.
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Under the law, states must pay up to 15% of SNAP benefits starting in fiscal year 2028.
The required share depends on a state’s accuracy in issuing benefit payments in fiscal year 2025 or 2026.
Previously, the federal government fully covered the cost of SNAP benefits.
States will also pay a higher share of SNAP administration costs beginning in fiscal year 2027.
The state share will rise to 75% from the previous 50-50 split with the federal government.
A letter from the National Governors Association and other groups calls for a delay in these provisions.
It cites difficulties from the 2025 federal government shutdown and other law changes.
During the 43-day shutdown, SNAP benefits lapsed for the first time.
States scrambled to issue partial benefits with their own funds amid changing federal guidance.
States were also implementing other provisions like expanded SNAP work requirements.
“These overlapping events exposed states and counties to significant, unintended fiscal risks,” the letter said.
It warned the compounding effects could put SNAP in jeopardy across the country without relief.
Delaying the cost-share provisions until 2030 would let states lower payment error rates.
The delay would also give states time to shore up their SNAP programs.
On average, states will face RM218 million in new SNAP spending from the law.
Sums could reach as high as RM991 million in Florida and RM1.8 billion in California. – Reuters
