McClain Delaney proposes amendment to protect SNAP benefits for children in Congress debate

On May 15, 2025, the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture convened to discuss critical amendments related to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during a markup session. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding proposed cuts to SNAP benefits, particularly their potential impact on children and vulnerable families.

One of the most contentious discussions centered around Amendment 22, introduced by Congresswoman McClain Delaney of Maryland. This amendment aimed to block cuts to SNAP unless the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and state governments could certify that these changes would not adversely affect households with children. Delaney emphasized the importance of SNAP for families in her district, noting that over 76,000 individuals, including nearly 40,000 children, rely on the program for essential food assistance. She warned that the proposed cuts could lead to an $18 billion reduction in benefits for households with children, exacerbating food insecurity for one in five children in America.

Support for the amendment was robust among committee members, with several representatives sharing personal anecdotes and data to illustrate the dire consequences of hunger on children's health and education. Congressman McGovern highlighted the long-term costs of child hunger, arguing that inadequate nutrition leads to chronic health issues and hinders educational achievement. He criticized the reconciliation package for prioritizing tax breaks for the wealthy over the nutritional needs of children and veterans.

Other members echoed these sentiments, stressing that cuts to SNAP would not only affect families at home but also diminish access to school meals, which are vital for children's well-being. Congresswoman Brown pointed out that studies show children who receive proper nutrition perform better academically and have healthier lives, reinforcing the need for bipartisan support to protect SNAP benefits.

Despite the compelling arguments, the amendment faced opposition, with some committee members arguing that the reforms were necessary to ensure the program's integrity and fiscal sustainability. The amendment ultimately did not pass, with a recorded vote requested for further proceedings.

Additionally, Delaney introduced Amendment 23, which sought to block provisions that would shift costs of SNAP cuts onto states unless it could be assured that these changes would not lead to reduced benefits. She warned that such shifts could force states to reallocate funds from essential services, further endangering low-income families.

The discussions during this markup session underscored the ongoing debate over SNAP's role in American society, particularly in light of rising food insecurity and economic challenges. As the committee continues to navigate these complex issues, the implications of their decisions will resonate deeply within communities reliant on food assistance programs. The next steps will involve further deliberations on the proposed amendments and their potential impact on vulnerable populations across the nation.