A new budget proposal from House Republicans has sparked fears of major cuts to food assistance programs. The proposal, released in February 2025, aims to slash $2 trillion in federal spending over the next decade. One of the biggest targets? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps.
While the budget doesn’t explicitly say it will cut SNAP benefits, the proposed $230 billion reduction to the USDA’s funding has many worried about what it could mean for millions of Americans who rely on food assistance.
Will SNAP Benefits Be Cut?
So far, Republican leaders insist that benefits won’t be reduced. House Agriculture Committee Chair G.T. Thompson said, “There are no cuts to benefits,” emphasizing that changes would focus on improving the program rather than slashing funding.
However, critics aren’t convinced. Some Democrats, including Representative Steve Cohen, have warned that the cuts could lead to as much as a 20% reduction in SNAP benefits, hitting low-income families the hardest.
Changes in Store for SNAP Recipients
In addition to potential budget cuts, the USDA is also considering changes to what SNAP recipients can buy. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has suggested banning unhealthy foods like sugary drinks and junk food from being purchased with food stamps. This move, aimed at promoting better nutrition, could significantly impact shopping habits for millions of families.
Who Will Be Affected?
If SNAP benefits are reduced, the effects could ripple beyond just the recipients. Retail giants like Walmart and Kroger, which receive billions from SNAP purchases, could see financial losses. The food supply chain—including farmers, truckers, and grocery stores—could also take a hit.
What Happens Next?
The proposed budget still has to go through Congress, meaning changes aren’t happening overnight. However, with food prices already high, any cutbacks to food assistance could make it even harder for struggling families to put meals on the table.
As lawmakers debate the issue, millions of Americans will be watching closely, hoping they won’t be left hungry in the name of budget cuts.
