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Nutrition program updates on table in debt ceiling discussion

A U.S. Congressman from Nebraska says an expansion of work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is still on the table as lawmakers seek support on a debt ceiling bill.

House Republicans want a $4.5 trillion federal spending cut to raise the debt ceiling and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s initial proposal includes raising the SNAP benefit age from 50 to 56 for people without children.

But Don Bacon tells Brownfield, “I don’t think there will be a huge impact when all is said and done.”

The initial proposal would also cap federal spending growth at 1% each year. Bacon says if the House can pass the bill on a partisan vote, he is hopeful President Joe Biden will come to the table to negotiate.

“The 1% growth, I’m sure President Biden will say it’s too little, but we’re going to put it on the table. That’s not just for the farm bill, we can move this around a little.”

A vote on the legislation is possible in the House this week.