WC Wisconsin News

Last week, Congressman Derrick Van Orden from Wisconsin's 3rd District called on House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson to reconsider a proposed adjustment to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding. The current proposal suggests shifting 25% of SNAP costs onto state governments as part of budget reconciliation instructions agreed upon by the House and Senate.

Van Orden has suggested an alternative approach where each state's cost-sharing responsibility would be tied to its SNAP error rate. He cited Wisconsin's 4.74% overpayment error rate in 2023 as an example, suggesting that the state should only be responsible for 4.74% of the costs.

In his communication, Rep. Van Orden also expressed opposition to any measures that would cut Medicaid and SNAP benefits for vulnerable populations. He stated, "I write today in strong opposition to the reckless proposals under consideration that would impose up to 25% of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) costs on state governments." He emphasized the need to avoid placing financial burdens on rural states, which often face more widespread food insecurity.

The Congressman further highlighted inefficiencies within SNAP, noting a national overpayment error rate of 10.03% in FY2023, which led to $13 billion in improperly issued benefits. "Rather than threatening the benefits of those who rightfully receive SNAP, we should focus efforts on correcting inefficiencies," he said.

Van Orden's letter was addressed to Chairman Thompson and stressed accountability while proposing a fair and proportional system that incentivizes good program management without punishing those who rely on these programs.