Overview of USDA’s New Policy
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a new plan to eliminate automatic enrollment for those who are already part of other programs.
Currently, most states, including Michigan, allow individuals enrolled in some welfare programs to automatically qualify for the SNAP program. This change could impact more than three million Americans.
“Any time there is limitations on the eligibility for the SNAP program, more people are removed from the program and then in need of food, and then they come to food pantries in our network,”
— Kait Skwir, Food Bank Council of Michigan
Uncertainty in Michigan
Because the information is so new, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) doesn’t have a number for how many people will be affected. A spokesperson stated it would likely be a small percent of the one million Michiganders currently in the program.
Potential Economic Impact
The Michigan League for Public Policy, a nonpartisan group, warns this change could also impact the broader economy.
“They’re not buying things on Amazon. They’re not paying off old credit card debt. What they’re doing with those federal dollars is they are buying food from a local grocery store,”
— Peter Ruark, Michigan League for Public Policy
USDA’s Rationale
USDA officials claim this measure will close a “loophole” that allows people to abuse the system.
In Michigan, that’s estimated to be about 0.3% of recipients, according to MDHHS.
“I don’t think I would call this a loophole. We do have programs in place to find fraud when there’s any fraud occurring with the food assistance program or other programs,”
— Bob Wheaton, MDHHS
State’s Response
MDHHS Director Robert Gordon criticized the proposal:
“Instead of supporting work, this proposal punishes full-time earners. Instead of targeting fraud and abuse, this proposal goes after families playing by all the rules. It is a radical break from a long-standing, bipartisan approach to food assistance.”
Learn More
To learn more, visit our SNAP Violation Attorney website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the USDA’s new policy regarding SNAP eligibility?
The USDA’s new policy ends automatic SNAP enrollment for individuals who are already part of other welfare programs. This change is intended to reduce what the USDA considers a loophole, though it may affect millions of Americans who currently qualify automatically.
How many people in Michigan could lose SNAP benefits?
While exact numbers are unknown, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) estimates the policy will affect only a small percentage of the one million current SNAP recipients in the state.
Why is this change being criticized in Michigan?
Critics argue the policy targets low-income working families rather than preventing fraud. State officials and advocacy groups warn it could increase food insecurity and place additional pressure on food banks.
What is the USDA’s reasoning behind this policy change?
The USDA claims the policy will tighten eligibility rules and prevent abuse. They believe it closes a loophole that allows some individuals to qualify for SNAP without going through standard eligibility checks.
What economic impact could this policy have?
Experts warn that reduced SNAP enrollment could harm local economies, as beneficiaries typically spend their benefits at neighborhood grocery stores. This may reduce consumer spending in struggling communities.