Senate parliamentarian approves of the Ag Committee’s revised cost-share provision of SNAP

Senate leaders may move forward with a plan to cost-share the SNAP program with states. The revised proposal comes after the Senate parliamentarian rejected an earlier version.

The revised plan would use SNAP error rates to determine what states owe. In 2023, SNAP errors totaled $10 billion, which Senate Ag Committee Chair John Boozman says shows the need for accountability. States could use their error rates from this year or next to calculate their match. Starting in 2029, the rate would be based on the average of the three years prior.

Savings around the SNAP program are a key part of the Senate’s reconciliation bill, as they look to save more than $200 billion over a decade.

Related Stories
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins signed six MAHA waivers for SNAP in Hawaii, Missouri, North Dakota, South Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee.
The Senate has cleared a path to reopen USDA, but full restoration of services depends on House approval and the President’s signature.
USDA will meet part of November SNAP benefits under court direction, citing insufficient funds for full payments.
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) shares his perspective on the U.S.-China trade developments and their potential impact on American producers, farmers, and ranchers.
Congress has just over a month of working days left for the year. Plan for uneven USDA service until funding is restored, and closely monitor Farm Bill talks, as avoiding Permanent Law before January 1 is the single biggest risk to markets and milk prices.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Industry-wide participation in SHIP enhances biosecurity and fosters global trust in U.S. pork, says swine health expert, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham.
A new study by the National Grains and Feeds Association found that their industry generates $401.7 billion in economic output and supports over 1.16 million jobs nationwide.
National Education Center for Ag Safety Director Dan Neenan joins us to discuss grain bin safety and the steps producers can take to prevent tragedies.
As National Advisor, Carson will counsel both President Trump and Secretary Rollins on nutrition, healthcare access in rural areas, and housing. He will also serve as a key member of the MAHA Commission.
What is it like working cattle with an outbreak of New World Screwworm so close to home? Wayne Cockrell, with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, joined us on Wednesday to discuss.
Kevin Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance joined us Tuesday to share his perspective on farm safety and risk management during fall harvest.