Proposed SNAP Cuts: A Perfect Storm for Food Insecurity That Has Food for People Concerned

As Congress debates changes to a major bill, a big focus is on proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These cuts could affect many people in Humboldt County and beyond.

Recently, Republican senators introduced a modified version of the SNAP cuts from a House bill. This original plan aimed to slash nearly $300 billion from SNAP by 2034, according to the Congressional Budget Office. The goal is to reduce federal costs by shifting some expenses to states and tightening work requirements for recipients.

SNAP, widely known as food stamps, supports low-income individuals and families by providing funds for groceries. In California, this program is known as CalFresh. As of April 2024, about 29,997 people in Humboldt County, nearly a fifth of the population, relied on SNAP. This number has risen since 2018.

Carly Robbins, the director of Food for People, Humboldt County’s food bank, expressed deep concern over the cuts. “Any reduction in SNAP funding is going to exacerbate food insecurity,” she warned. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that up to 3.2 million people nationwide could lose access to the program due to these cuts.

Robbins noted that food banks are already struggling. Rising food prices and cuts to federal support, like the Local Food Purchase Assistance program, make it hard to meet increasing demand. “We can’t suddenly double our services,” she said, stressing her worries for families and children facing hunger.

Under the proposed changes, California would have to start paying a share of SNAP costs. Currently, states don’t contribute; however, California’s error rate in food assistance has been around 13% in 2023. If the changes pass, California could be responsible for 25% of the program’s benefits, amounting to roughly $30 billion over ten years. Local officials foresee massive administrative costs as well.

Tom Joseph, a lobbyist for Humboldt County, highlighted how these proposals will significantly impact the county’s budget. “An increase in the state and county’s share means millions lost for us,” he explained.

Many experts worry about the implications for rural areas like Humboldt. “These cuts will hit the hardest where tax revenue is low,” Robbins added. The proposed revisions also include stricter work requirements, raising the age limit for able-bodied adults to work until 64 and limiting exemptions for vulnerable groups.

In a politically charged environment, some argue these changes encourage work and save taxpayer money. However, others, including Robbins and various analysts, believe that instead, they will lead to increased hunger and strain on local support systems.

Overall, the conversation around SNAP cuts reflects broader issues of food insecurity and economic challenges facing many communities.

For more information, you can check out resources from the California Department of Social Services on SNAP and food assistance.

Sage Alexander can be reached at 707-441-0504.

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