Sen. Mike Lee Proposes Major Overhaul to SNAP Amid Economic Concerns
Salt Lake City, UT — May 3, 2025 – Senator Mike Lee has introduced a significant reform of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), advocating for states to assume greater financial responsibility for the food assistance program. His proposal, the SNAP Reform and Upward Mobility Act, aims to transition states to cover half of SNAP’s costs over the next decade.
This reform comes at a time when the potential impact of economic downturns raises alarms. A recent analysis from the Urban Institute warns that if the U.S. enters a recession comparable to past economic collapses, around 862,000 Americans could be driven into poverty—a scenario that could significantly affect Lee’s constituents in Utah. The report highlights that many Utah families could face the second-largest decrease in benefits nationwide, averaging about $731 less annually.
Currently, SNAP funding is designed to expand automatically during economic crises. Lee’s proposal, however, would make it incumbent on states to determine whether to increase financial support or reduce benefits, which could lead to severe cuts during downturns. The analysis indicates that at a 10% cost-share, Utah might have to spend approximately $19 million more in fiscal 2026. Should the state reach the proposed 50% cost-share, costs could soar to nearly $200 million annually.
Lee touts the bill as a bold move to close loopholes in SNAP’s management, emphasizing work requirements to promote economic mobility. Backing the proposal, House sponsor Rep. Josh Brecheen criticized federal management of SNAP and advocated for state-level responsibility to encourage efficiency.
The proposal aligns with a conservative reform framework from the American Enterprise Institute, promoting the notion that restructuring SNAP could notably reduce poverty rates. Lee’s office has yet to officially respond to concerns raised by the Urban Institute’s analysis.
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