S.1156 - Food Secure Strikers Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Food Secure Strikers Act of 2025 (S.1156) aims to amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008. The amendment ensures that striking workers and their households remain eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The bill was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would prevent striking workers from automatically losing SNAP benefits. This could provide a safety net for families during labor disputes. It may also shift the balance of power slightly in favor of striking workers during negotiations.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a safety net for striking workers and their families, reducing food insecurity during labor disputes.
- May empower workers during strikes, potentially leading to fairer labor negotiations.
- Could reduce pressure on striking workers to accept unfavorable terms due to financial hardship.
- Aligns SNAP benefits more closely with the program's intent to alleviate hunger, regardless of employment status.
- Potentially stimulates local economies as SNAP benefits are spent on food.
Potential Disadvantages
- May incentivize longer strikes, potentially disrupting industries and supply chains.
- Could be perceived as unfairly subsidizing striking workers with taxpayer money.
- May strain the SNAP program's resources, potentially requiring increased funding.
- Could create a moral hazard, where workers are less motivated to seek alternative employment during a strike.
- Potential for increased administrative burden to verify strike participation and eligibility.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily related to the 'general Welfare' clause of the Preamble. Congress has broad authority to legislate on matters related to the general welfare, including food assistance programs. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. The First Amendment protects the right to assemble and petition the government, which includes the right to strike, and this bill could be seen as indirectly supporting that right by ensuring basic needs are met during a strike.
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).