Senator Hawley Introduces Bills to Sustain SNAP, Farm Programs Amid U.S. Government Shutdown

Senator Josh Hawley has introduced two bills, the Keep SNAP Funded Act and the Fund Farm Programs Act, aimed at ensuring uninterrupted funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and essential farm services during federal government shutdowns. These bills would appropriate necessary funds retroactively to maintain SNAP benefits and keep Farm Service Agency offices operational, addressing the risk of benefit disruptions affecting millions, including over 650,000 Missourians. Hawley criticized Democrats for the shutdown, framing his legislation as a response to prevent families from facing hunger due to government inaction. However, critics note Hawley's prior support for significant SNAP cuts in President Trump's budget, highlighting a contradiction between his recent defense of SNAP and earlier actions that reduced aid. Despite the introduction of these bills, it remains uncertain whether they will advance in the Republican-controlled Senate, mirroring Hawley's previous unsuccessful attempt to repeal Medicaid cuts. The measures underscore ongoing partisan tensions over funding essential social and agricultural programs amid the prolonged government shutdown.