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Every five years, Congress debates funding levels and eligibility rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—the nation’s largest tool for fighting hunger—as part of the Farm Bill reauthorization. With negotiations for the 2023 Farm Bill underway, the IWS team and the CPG are poised to ensure lawmakers hear our unique insights on strengthening the program. As pandemic-era food assistance winds down, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the 41 million people who rely on SNAP. We want to invite you all to sign up to stay current on CLASP’s latest commentary and analysis on the 2023 Farm Bill and future SNAP advocacy.
The President’s budget arrives at a politically charged and highly partisan moment in our national politics. The House majority is threatening default on the debt unless the President agrees to steep cuts to critical programs. At the same time, pandemic-era assistance programs are winding down. Millions of people are receiving less food assistance or risk losing health insurance coverage under Medicaid. Congress faces clear choices, between continued investments to strengthen our economy and promote opportunity, paid for with responsible tax policy, or a default or budget cuts that would likely send the U.S. into recession. In some parts of the President's budget, the administration is proposing bold and effective policies that advance equity and prosperity like an expanded, fully refundable Child Tax Credit. In other areas, especially immigration and public safety, the President’s requests undermine these goals.
We’re thrilled to announce that Cara Brumfield will be the new director of the IWS team. Cara has a breadth of knowledge in public benefits, including TANF and nutrition programs, as well as additional areas like child support and welfare, paid leave, corporate power, worker power, data equity, and democracy. She brings a deep commitment—grounded in lived expertise—to our team’s racial, gender, and economic justice agenda. Cara is currently an associate director at the Georgetown Center on Poverty and Inequality and will officially join our team at the end of the month.
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