hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Modifies how Social Security COLAs and state payments affect food aid eligibility.
Sen. Welch (D-VT) and six co-sponsors introduced this in the Senate.
In committee, no Senate vote yet
This bill changes how some income, like Social Security cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) and state supplementary payments, are counted when determining eligibility for federal food assistance (SNAP). It was introduced by Senator Welch (D-VT) along with six other senators and is currently being reviewed by the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
Introduced Jan 8, 2026
This bill was introduced in the Senate and immediately sent to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry for review. Before it can become law, it must pass through this committee, be voted on and passed by the full Senate, then pass through the House of Representatives, and finally be signed by the President. No votes have been held yet on this specific bill.
If this bill passes, any future cost-of-living increases to your Social Security benefits might no longer lead to a reduction in your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Additionally, certain state payments designed to supplement federal benefits could also be excluded from your income when determining SNAP eligibility. These changes, if enacted, would begin on October 1, 2027.
Supporters Say
Proponents would likely argue this ensures cost-of-living adjustments do not unintentionally reduce food assistance.
Critics Say
Opponents might raise concerns about potential increases in federal spending or program complexity.
The bill text does not explicitly detail arguments for or against its provisions. However, those in favor would likely emphasize that the bill prevents minor increases in other benefits from unfairly reducing crucial food assistance for vulnerable individuals. Critics might express concerns about the fiscal implications of broadening income exclusions for a federal assistance program.