For SNAP to run efficiently and continue operating, the program must be fully funded.
Arkansas budget hearings are happening now.
“When survivors of violence can access SNAP benefits, they don’t have to make that choice between putting food on the table for their kids and being in a safe home free from violence and abuse.” -Elaine Jackson
On October 29, the Arkansas Legislative Council and Joint Budget Committee will hold the hearing for the Arkansas Department of Human Services’ (DHS) budget — including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) budget — for the upcoming budget cycle. DHS is currently running SNAP with an $18 million shortfall due to cost shifts from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
And next year this amount will increase to about $24 million. This is why the next DHS budget must include state dollars to help absorb this cost shift from the federal government. DHS needs the staffing, training, resources, and technology to adequately operate SNAP and not increase our SNAP payment error rate which would only incur more financial penalties for Arkansas in the future.
There are many families in our community for whom SNAP is a lifeline to get them through a tough time. SNAP dollars also support local grocery stores, farmers, and truckers.
SNAP is not a federally required program. If the legislature doesn’t invest state dollars to sustain the administration of SNAP, the future of SNAP will be at risk in Arkansas.
Write your legislators right now and let them know you don’t want your community to go hungry.
Join us in the fight for children’s rights and family support. Your involvement can help shape a better future for our community.
