ARLINGTON—On Thursday, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) addressed the federal food program cuts from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed into law by President Donald J Trump. Joined by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, nutrition advocates, educators, and local food providers, DelBene stated that the legislation will affect many Washington families and children.
The bill, passed by Congressional Republicans, reduces SNAP funding by approximately $200 billion over a decade, introduces work and volunteer requirements, and modifies food assistance for families, children, and seniors nationwide. It also includes cuts to Medicaid and student loan repayment programs to offset approximately $4.5 trillion in tax cuts.
In Washington, approximately one million people receive SNAP benefits, averaging $6 per day. The new law may result in over 130,000 residents losing some or all benefits, with all SNAP recipients in the state expected to face reductions. Nationwide, the Urban Institute estimates that 22.3 million families could lose some or all SNAP benefits over the next decade.
“No one should go hungry in a wealthy nation,” said DelBene. “This bill’s cuts affect working families, children, veterans, and seniors to fund tax breaks for the affluent. These changes will strain families and local food banks. I will continue to oppose these policies.”
Governor Bob Ferguson added, “President Trump’s cruel bill will literally take food away from thousands of Washington children to pay for tax cuts for billionaire. For many families, they’re already working to stretch every dollar. Hunger impacts kids’ performance in school, their health and their physical development. These cuts will adversely impact a generation of kids into the future.”
Carla Rankin, Executive Director of Arlington Food Bank, said, “Food security is tied to housing, healthcare, education, and employment. SNAP is a critical safety net. These cuts force families to choose between essentials like rent or groceries. Food banks cannot fully replace federal programs, as our resources rely on donations and volunteers, which are limited.”
Nicole Flateboe, Executive Director of Nutrition First, said, “The cuts to SNAP and Medicaid will increase demand for our services. Currently, we serve only half of the eligible WIC population, and these changes will heighten administrative challenges for enrolling clients.”
However, supporters of the bill, such as Representative Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY11), argue that the cuts address waste and fraud in SNAP and Medicaid. They contend that new work requirements for able-bodied recipients—such as working, volunteering, or taking classes—ensure that benefits are directed to those contributing to society.
Anna Kelly, White House Deputy Press Secretary, stated, “The tax savings in the bill will put more money in New Yorkers’ pockets and support families across the state. The One Big Beautiful Bill restores common-sense work requirements to SNAP.”
Posts on X also suggest that the cuts could save $230–300 billion by reducing inefficiencies, with some arguing that Congress can adjust the policy if food insecurity rises. Critics counter that the work requirements may disproportionately affect seniors, disabled individuals, and working-poor families who face barriers like lack of transportation or medical documentation.
The bill’s tax provisions make the tax rates and brackets permanent from Trump’s first term, preventing their expiration, and include business tax cuts, such as immediate write-offs for equipment and research costs. Temporary deductions for tips, overtime, and auto loans were also in the bill. Supporters argue these measures stimulate economic growth, but critics highlight that the benefits skew toward wealthy individuals and corporations.
Thursday’s event included representatives from Arlington Community Food Bank, Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Volunteers of America Western Washington, Arlington School District, Arlington Farmers Market, Washington State University SNAP-Ed, and Nutrition First.
Author: Mario Lotmore
