LB 192 would eliminate the sunset date for Nebraska's current eligibility level for SNAP set at 165% of the Federal Poverty Level, which is set to return to the pre-pandemic eligibility level on October 1, 2025.
Why does NASW-NE support LB 192?
Data shows that roughly 40% of Nebraskans are at 150% of the poverty level or below. Allowing the SNAP eligibility level to fall back to 130% of the federal poverty level could affect nearly 700,000 Nebraskans. Maintaining the current eligibility level can ensure that the increasing number of families in poverty or near poverty, including the working poor, can maintain minimum levels of food security despite major increases in the cost of consumer goods. Hard-working families, fighting off poverty and instability, cannot afford the detrimental setbacks that a cliff effect in SNAP benefits could create.
Food insecurity can have far reaching implications. Families who have difficulties buying adequate food also struggle to pay for housing, childcare, healthcare and other basic needs. These families must sometimes make difficult choices between buying food, making rent or paying for medical bills, for example. Food insecurity is particularly dangerous for children as it is linked to numerous adverse outcomes that can have lasting effects, including developmental disruptions, school problems and physical and mental health issues. Fortunately, family food insecurity can be reduced by strengthening safety net programs such as SNAP.