FACING SNAP CHALLENGES

SNAP is often considered one of the more effective and efficient safety net programs. A large body of research shows that SNAP reduces poverty, improves food security among low-income households, and has positive effects on infant health and long-term benefits for children who received it. Nevertheless, despite this strong track record, the program still faces challenges. The main challenge is how to engage participants in work. Work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) were largely reinstated across the country by 2016. But it is unclear the extent to which work requirements and work programs can help other populations engage in work. SNAP Employment and Training pilot programs are currently being tested across the country, but none are testing mandatory requirements outside of those involving ABAWDs. Additional pilots in a few states could be implemented and rigorously studied to determine whether mandatory work requirements for able-bodied adults with children could be effective and whether they increase employment among SNAP recipients. If successful, efforts to expand work requirements more broadly could be explored.

Source: American Enterprise Institute, 2/22/17, SNAP Challenges