FMI Strongly Urges Congress to Reopen Government, Fully Fund SNAP and WIC through Passage of Agriculture Appropriations Legislation

Arlington, VA – Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association renewed its call for Congress to reopen the federal government and restore full funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), as well as pass the year-long Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) has expressed his desire to use the House-passed continuing resolution as the legislative vehicle for a broader agreement that would attach a package of full-year appropriations bills – including the Agriculture-FDA bill that restores SNAP and WIC funding. Senators have been advised they may need to remain in Washington through the weekend as additional votes on the legislative package are expected.

FMI Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher issued the following statement. 

“As an industry that serves families in every community in America, we know firsthand how essential federal hunger and nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC are to millions of households navigating difficult times and to the overall stability of our food system. When one leg of the stool that the government committed to provide is removed, it doesn’t just affect customers’ ability to feed their families; it also impacts store scheduling of employees, supplier orders and staffing, and the tax base of local economies across the country. 

“We appreciate the efforts many states have made to try to provide short-term funding solutions in this time of need, and we’re proud of the way retailers and suppliers continue to support their communities during this period of uncertainty through donation programs and partnerships with neighborhood groups. However, long-term stability for SNAP, WIC, and vulnerable families requires the restoration of the federal commitment to these programs. Not only does this require the government to reopen – it also requires Congress to pass the Agriculture Appropriations bill that will fund these programs over the next year. 

“We once again urge Congress to act immediately to restore government funding, provide clarity and food for families in need, and ensure that these vital programs remain dependable for those who rely on them to get through difficult times by also passing the Agriculture Appropriations legislation.”