H.R.2357 - Food Secure Strikers Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2357, the Food Secure Strikers Act of 2025, aims to amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008. The amendment seeks to ensure that striking workers and their households remain eligible for benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Agriculture.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would mean that striking workers would not automatically lose SNAP benefits due to their participation in a strike. This could provide a financial safety net for families during labor disputes. It could also potentially embolden workers to strike, knowing their families will have access to food assistance.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a safety net for striking workers and their families, ensuring access to food during labor disputes.
- May empower workers to exercise their right to strike without fear of immediate food insecurity.
- Could lead to fairer labor negotiations by reducing the financial pressure on striking workers.
- Aligns SNAP benefits more closely with the program's intent to alleviate hunger and food insecurity.
- Potentially reduces the strain on local food banks and charities during strikes.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could incentivize longer strikes, potentially disrupting the economy.
- May be seen as unfairly subsidizing striking workers at the expense of taxpayers.
- Could strain the SNAP program's resources, potentially requiring increased funding.
- May create a perception of government taking sides in labor disputes.
- Could lead to increased applications for SNAP benefits, adding to administrative burdens.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily related to the 'general Welfare' clause of the Preamble. The bill aims to promote the general welfare by ensuring food security for striking workers and their families. Additionally, the First Amendment protects the right to assemble and petition the government, which includes the right to strike. Providing food assistance to striking workers could be argued as not infringing upon this right.
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).