Bill would keep SNAP and WIC benefits flowing during government shutdowns

What does this do?

HR 5860 would require SNAP and WIC benefits to continue uninterrupted during federal funding gaps or government shutdowns, automatically setting aside whatever money is needed to keep both programs running. No executive branch official, including those at budget offices or the Agriculture Department, could hold back, delay, or freeze these funds. States and tribal governments would be required to keep processing applications, and approved applicants must receive benefits within five days.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects the roughly 40 million Americans who rely on SNAP and the approximately 6 to 7 million people who use WIC, including low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children. It also applies to state governments and federally recognized tribes that administer these programs.

Why does it matter?

Without this legislation, federal funding gaps can interrupt the flow of SNAP and WIC benefits, leaving tens of millions of low-income people without food assistance. The bill also creates an obligation for the federal government to reimburse any state or tribe that spends its own emergency funds to keep benefits going during a federal funding lapse.

What does it cost, and who pays?

The bill automatically sets aside whatever federal funds are necessary to keep SNAP and WIC running during a funding gap, with no fixed cap stated. The federal government is also required to reimburse states or tribes that cover benefit costs out of their own funds during a lapse.

Where does it stand?