H.R.1198 - Let’s Get to Work Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1198, the "Let's Get to Work Act of 2025," aims to amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 and the United States Housing Act of 1937 by modifying work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and public housing assistance. The bill introduces changes to the exemptions and time limits related to work requirements for SNAP recipients, particularly affecting parents with dependent children. It also extends these work requirements to individuals residing in public housing and those receiving tenant-based rental assistance.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would likely result in stricter eligibility criteria for SNAP benefits, public housing, and rental assistance. Some individuals may lose access to these programs if they do not meet the revised work requirements. It could also lead to increased administrative burdens for state agencies and housing authorities responsible for implementing and monitoring compliance.
Potential Benefits
- Potential reduction in government spending on social safety net programs.
- May incentivize some individuals to seek employment or increase their work hours.
- Could lead to a decrease in dependency on public assistance.
- Aligns assistance programs more closely with the principle of self-reliance.
- May free up resources for other social programs or tax reductions.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased risk of food insecurity and homelessness for those unable to meet work requirements due to factors like disability, lack of childcare, or limited job opportunities.
- Disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, including single parents, individuals with disabilities, and those living in areas with high unemployment.
- Increased administrative costs for verifying compliance with work requirements.
- Potential for increased poverty and hardship, especially among families with young children.
- May not effectively address the root causes of poverty and unemployment.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8), which arguably includes providing for social safety nets. However, the extent to which Congress can impose conditions on the receipt of federal benefits is subject to debate. The bill could be challenged on equal protection grounds if it disproportionately harms certain groups without a rational basis. Additionally, the bill must be implemented in a way that respects due process rights.
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).