House GOP Bill Cuts Food, Health Aid for Millions Nationwide

The House budget reconciliation bill proposes significant cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), potentially reducing eligibility for free or reduced-price school meals through direct certification, and increasing paperwork for families and schools. The bill would cut SNAP funding by approximately $300 billion through 2034, impacting over 40 million people, including millions of children, seniors, and adults with disabilities, by reducing federal support and expanding harsh work requirements. These SNAP cuts could force states to either reduce benefits, restrict eligibility, or opt out of the program, risking food assistance access for millions. Medicaid cuts in the bill are projected to cause nearly 14 million people to lose health coverage by 2034, the largest reduction in Medicaid history, with millions more facing higher costs and coverage losses due to changes in Affordable Care Act marketplace provisions. Democratic leaders strongly oppose the bill, describing it as a scheme that would take food from vulnerable populations, increase economic hardship, and benefit wealthy donors. Meanwhile, President Trump has defended the cuts by claiming they will lower food prices, a statement contradicted by experts who warn that reducing food assistance harms both recipients and the broader food supply chain.