Expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States Department of Agriculture should use its contingency funds and interchange authority to finance the supplemental nutrition assistance program.
Summary
This Senate resolution expresses the sense of the Senate that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) should utilize its contingency funds and interchange authority to finance the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The resolution highlights the importance of SNAP in alleviating hunger and malnutrition, especially for vulnerable populations. It also references existing appropriations for the SNAP contingency fund and the USDA's authority to transfer funds within nutrition programs.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this resolution would put pressure on the USDA to use available funds to maintain SNAP benefits, particularly during times of crisis such as government shutdowns. This would ensure continued food assistance for millions of Americans who rely on the program. The resolution does not have the force of law but serves as a strong signal of the Senate's priorities.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continued access to food for vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans.
- Reduces hunger and malnutrition among low-income individuals and families.
- Provides stability and predictability in food assistance programs.
- Supports the health and well-being of families experiencing food insecurity.
- Potentially prevents disruptions in SNAP benefits during government shutdowns or other emergencies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Using contingency funds may deplete resources intended for unforeseen future emergencies.
- Interchange authority, while legal, could potentially divert funds from other important nutrition programs.
- The resolution is non-binding and may not compel the USDA to take the desired action.
- Potential political conflict if the executive branch disagrees with the Senate's interpretation of funding priorities.
- It may create a precedent for using contingency funds for routine program operations rather than true emergencies.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, which empowers Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation. While the Constitution does not explicitly mention food assistance programs, the resolution's intent to alleviate hunger and malnutrition falls within the scope of promoting the general welfare. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).