California Senate pushes SJR 3 to protect SNAP funding against proposed federal cuts

The California State Senate has taken a significant step to combat food insecurity by passing Senate Joint Resolution 3, which urges Congress to reject proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This resolution, presented by Senator Adeghin, highlights the critical role SNAP plays in supporting millions of Californians facing hunger.

Despite California's status as a leading economic powerhouse, approximately one in five residents experiences food insecurity. The resolution emphasizes that food banks, while essential, can only provide a fraction of the meals that SNAP offers. Currently, over 5.5 million Californians rely on CalFresh, California's version of SNAP, which provides vital assistance to low-income households.

Senator Adeghin pointed out that proposed cuts to SNAP could result in a staggering loss of $230 billion in benefits, exacerbating food insecurity and negatively impacting local economies. The resolution calls for Congress to recognize SNAP not merely as an expense but as an investment that stimulates economic activity and supports farmers.

Support for the resolution was echoed by several senators, including Senator McNerney, who noted the high rates of food insecurity in his district, and Senator Weber, who highlighted the disproportionate impact on Black and Hispanic families. The urgency of the matter was underscored by statistics showing that food insecurity rates have risen significantly since the pandemic.

Senator Becker also emphasized the importance of increasing enrollment in CalFresh, noting that many eligible individuals remain unregistered. The Senate's collective voice aims to ensure that vulnerable populations, including children and seniors, continue to receive the support they need.

As California moves forward, the passage of SJR 3 sends a clear message to Congress about the importance of maintaining robust nutrition assistance programs. The resolution not only addresses immediate needs but also reinforces the state's commitment to fighting hunger and supporting its most vulnerable residents.