AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee voted Tuesday to advance legislation sponsored by Rep. Holly Stover, D-Boothbay, that would bolster monthly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) allotments to replace the temporary boosts provided as a federal emergency measure.
Congress increased SNAP benefits in 2021 through Emergency Allotments to combat the pandemic's economic impacts and the growing hunger crisis. The Emergency Allotments brought all SNAP recipients up to the maximum benefit level for their household size or provided an additional $95 in monthly benefits for those with the lowest incomes already receiving the maximum amount. However, the Emergency Allotments ended on March 1.
As amended, LD 1584 would increase Maines minimum monthly SNAP allotments from $27 to $95, ensuring any eligible household receives at least $95 in benefits each month.
"SNAP benefits are essential for lifting folks across the state out of poverty," said Stover. "Many low-income individuals, families and older Mainers cannot afford to go back to the pre-pandemic minimum allotment of $27 per month. This legislation will provide critical support for our most vulnerable neighbors."
"The recent reduction in benefits has too many Maine families again facing the dangers of food insecurity. Ultimately, SNAP allows the dignity of shopping at a store, generates revenue at food retailers across the state and relieves the burden on the emergency food network," said Speaker of the House Rachel Talbot Ross. "Rep. Stover's legislation will restore these essential benefits and alleviate the latest stress on Maine families and Maine food banks."
While the federal Public Health Emergency has come to a close, long-lasting impacts of the pandemic remain. Nationally, food prices have reached historic highs and are predicted to increase by another 6.5 percent over the course of 2023.
"Maine is one of eight states leading the nation in considering a higher state SNAP minimum," said Kristen Miale, president of Good Shepherd Food Bank. "While we are incredibly proud of the work being done to end hunger in our state and the great strides that have been made to alleviate the suffering caused by food insecurity, we cannot fill the gap created when public sector programs are not adequately funded. Pantry shelves across the state are empty, and our partners feel like they are failing. They are not failing; the system is failing. Good Shepherd Food Bank implores the Legislature to invest in this proven poverty reduction intervention."
Additionally, the federal increase in SNAP benefits brought in over $17 million in revenue for Maine grocery stores, food retailers and farmers. Increasing Maines minimum monthly SNAP allotments will ensure that businesses do not lose this additional source of revenue. The bill faces additional votes in the House and Senate in the coming weeks.
Rep. Holly Stover is serving her third term in the Maine House and represents Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb, South Bristol, Southport and Westport Island. She is House chair of the Legislature's State and Local Government Committee and serves as a member of the Joint Select Committee on Housing.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Stover], c. 305-965-2744
Mary-Erin Casale [Talbot Ross], c. 415-4965