SNAP BACK Act of 2025

# SNAP BACK Act of 2025 Summary **What the bill does:** The SNAP BACK Act would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to reimburse states for money they spend running the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as food stamps) during a federal government shutdown or funding lapse. Currently, when federal SNAP funding runs out due to a lapse in Congressional appropriations, states must cover these costs themselves.

This bill would ensure the federal government pays states back for those expenses, as long as the states followed all federal SNAP rules while providing benefits. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily affects state governments and the millions of low-income Americans who rely on SNAP benefits for food assistance. States that have been forced to cover SNAP costs during past funding lapses would potentially receive reimbursement. The bill also indirectly affects federal taxpayers, as it would establish a federal obligation to reimburse states rather than leaving states to absorb these costs. **Current status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Delaware) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate.