Pennsylvania officials warn against potential SNAP funding cuts

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, alongside Karns Foods CEO Scott Karns, Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association Communications Director John Zimmerman, and local farmers, addressed the potential impact of proposed federal cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding. They emphasized the importance of SNAP benefits in supporting Pennsylvania farms, grocery industry jobs, and families.

The discussion centered on concerns that reductions outlined in the current version of H.R. 1 could negatively affect farms and their communities. Governor Josh Shapiro has stated that Pennsylvania cannot compensate for the billions potentially lost if these federal funds are eliminated.

"Radical reductions in SNAP would hurt not only the two million people who receive benefits and may be temporarily struggling but would also hurt the Pennsylvania farm families, and families of those in 12,000 grocery industry jobs across the state supported by SNAP spending," said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. He added that "the Shapiro Administration is doing our part, investing to see that no family goes hungry in Pennsylvania. We are calling on Congress to keep its promises and remember their commitments to Pennsylvania farmers, families, and businesses."

Speakers at the event included Scott Karns from Karns Quality Food, John Zimmerman from PFMA, State Representative Nate Davidson, and Russell Redding from the PA Department of Agriculture.