As your constituent, I’m writing to express deep concern about the proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in the House Agriculture Committee's Bill.

SNAP is a lifeline for over 450,000 Minnesotans, 37% of whom are children, 17% are seniors, and 12% individuals with disabilities. Beyond putting food on the table, SNAP generates economic activity - every $1 in SNAP benefits generates approximately $1.50 in local economic impact. Farmers, grocers, and retailers across the state rely on SNAP to keep their businesses strong while also ensuring that families have access to nutritious foods.

These proposed cuts to SNAP would have devastating consequences, not just on families who depend on SNAP, but to rural economies, farmers, grocers and our state budget.

Minnesota cannot afford the proposed cost shift to states. While percentages are still to be determined, a 25% cost-share would cost our state over $200 million per year, on top of the proposed drop in administrative funding for states, cutting administrative support for the program by half.

Families in Minnesota cannot afford to lose the basic needs support they rely on. With proposed (and ineffective) work requirements, over 100,000 Minnesotans with school aged children and almost 15,000 seniors aged 55- 64 would risk losing their food assistance. Studies show that taking benefits away from individuals who don't meet work requirements does little to improve long-term employment outcomes.

And, the emergency food system cannot afford to fill the gap left behind by SNAP cuts. These proposals come at a time when food shelves are already overwhelmed by record levels of need and are now receiving 30% less free food for their clients due to recent cuts to The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) funding.

That’s why I urge you to reject the House Agriculture Committee's proposed cuts to SNAP. SNAP is one of the most effective tools we have to end hunger and strengthen communities across Minnesota. Your leadership is essential to making sure this program continues to serve our state well.

Thank you,