SNAP Cuts Hit Hard: 3.5 Million Lost Benefits Since July 2017
Since the law extending tax cuts and cutting $187 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was enacted in July 2017, about 3.5 million people nationwide have lost benefits as of January 2018, according to federal data.
Arizona Sees Drastic Decline
Arizona has seen the largest percentage drop of any state, with SNAP rolls falling approximately 50% as of March 2018 compared to the previous year. State data indicates about 200,000 children have lost benefits.
Increased Demand at Food Banks
The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona reports increased demand. CEO Natalie Jayroe stated that those served face uncertainty and anxiety.
The Driving Force Behind the Cuts
The state enacted expanded work requirements and increased documentation requirements for applicants. These changes were intended to move people into the workforce and reduce fraud, according to proponents.
Unintended Consequences
Policy analysts, service providers, and over two dozen individuals who say they were wrongly cut off report that the changes have made it harder for eligible people to receive assistance.