Chautauqua County legislator urges opposition to SNAP and HEAP funding cuts

The Chautauqua County Legislature convened on May 28, 2025, to address pressing issues affecting local residents, particularly concerning funding cuts to vital assistance programs. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the proposed 30% reduction in funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which was recently passed by the House of Representatives.

Legislators expressed alarm over the potential impact of these cuts, which would strip food assistance from thousands of county residents, including families with children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. The discussion emphasized that SNAP dollars are crucial for local economies, as they are spent immediately in local supermarkets and businesses. The cuts would not only harm vulnerable populations but also negatively affect local farmers, as SNAP provides essential demand for their products.

In addition to SNAP, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) was also under scrutiny. This program supports low-income households with heating and cooling costs, and last year, Chautauqua County recorded nearly 4,000 HEAP cases. Legislators voiced their commitment to urging local congressional representatives to oppose these funding cuts to ensure continued support for these essential programs.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for legislators to advocate for the preservation of SNAP and HEAP funding, emphasizing the importance of these programs for the well-being of the community and the local economy.