Connecticut Lawmaker Proposes State-Funded Nutrition Program Amid SNAP Cuts

A significant legislative proposal is on the horizon in Connecticut as state officials prepare to address the anticipated loss of federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for tens of thousands of residents. Sen. Cathy Osten, co-chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee, announced her intention to introduce a state-funded nutrition benefit when the legislative session opens on February 4, 2025. This initiative aims to support an estimated 36,000 individuals at risk of losing assistance by March 31, 2025.

Osten highlighted the urgency of the situation, asserting that ensuring food security is a fundamental societal responsibility. “We have Connecticut residents who are not getting the assistance they need,” she stated. “I’m not willing to not try to figure out a way to help people eat.”

The recent changes in SNAP eligibility requirements, mandated by Congress and former President Donald Trump, have placed vulnerable groups—including immigrants, young adults, veterans, and the homeless—at risk. Currently, the SNAP program in Connecticut provides about $72 million per month in benefits, representing roughly one-tenth of the state’s total SNAP population.

Osten believes that Connecticut can effectively manage the costs associated with this new program, given the state’s significant budget surpluses, which have averaged more than $1.8 billion—approximately 8% to 9% of the General Fund—since strict budget caps were introduced in 2017. Historically, Connecticut operated a state-funded food stamp program from the late 1990s until 2018 to assist residents excluded from federal benefits during welfare reform.

Osten’s proposal has garnered support from various organizations. The United Way, New Haven Legal Assistance, and over 15 other nonprofits have urged Governor Ned Lamont and legislative leaders to establish a similar program. However, Governor Lamont has expressed reservations about using state funds to supplement federally funded programs.

When questioned about the state’s potential ongoing financial commitment to food assistance, Lamont suggested that existing efforts involving food banks and pantries are more effective. He noted, “I think we have a better alternative with what we’re doing in terms of the food banks and Foodshare.”

Despite this, Osten argues that the proposed program should be implemented without delay. Her plan includes expanding job-coaching services to help at-risk residents secure employment. Nonetheless, she acknowledged that some individuals in this group, including those with mental illness or severe autism, may face barriers to employment.

Advocates from Connecticut’s food assistance nonprofits have praised the emergency funding earmarked by Lamont but emphasized that it can only partially replace the benefits lost by households cut off from SNAP. Jason Jakubowski, president and CEO of Foodshare, remarked, “We’re intended to be a supplement. There is not enough food at our food bank, or every food bank in the country put together, to make up for the number of meals that SNAP provides.”

Furthermore, Sara Parker McKernan, a policy advocate for New Haven Legal Assistance, pointed out that food pantries are primarily equipped to address short-term food emergencies. She highlighted the accessibility issues faced by many, as food pantries often operate under limited hours, making it challenging for working individuals to obtain necessary assistance.

For instance, a food pantry in Eastford, a small rural community, is open only from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on the first Monday of each month, complicating access for those in need. McKernan emphasized the importance of autonomy in food access, stating, “Having your own ability to pay for food, which you get when you have food stamps—that autonomy is key for people.”

As Connecticut prepares for the upcoming legislative session, the focus remains on ensuring that no resident goes hungry as federal SNAP benefits are set to decline, making the proposed state-funded nutrition program a critical development in addressing food insecurity across the state.