ANCOR Joins Coalition Letter Asking Congress to Reject Farm Bill SNAP Cuts

On May 7, 2018, ANCOR joined 39 other organizations that comprise the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities in a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) asking them to reject any proposals that would weaken the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This includes the current provision in the proposed Farm Bill being advanced by the House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture.

As stated in the letter, “Many people with disabilities are already hurt by SNAP time limits, despite existing exemptions for people who receive governmental or private benefits on the basis of a disability or are able to document that they are ‘physically or mentally unfit for employment.’ For example, in a study of SNAP participants subject to time limits referred to participate in work activities in Franklin County, Ohio, one-third reported a ‘physical or mental limitation.’”

Cutting off food assistance from SNAP would only make it harder for people to work and increase their economic self-sufficiency. We strongly oppose any action that would cut off or reduce SNAP benefits, narrow eligibility or force more people to navigate harsh and unnecessary program rules, including people with disabilities and their families.” The letter also includes a list of problematic provisions in the Farm Bill and CCD’s recommendation that Congress “explore meaningful opportunities for SNAP participants to increase self-sufficiency through employment.”