—Pope Leo XIV, address on World Food Day, 16 October 2025

Farm Bill Must Restore Nutrition Assistance

The House of Representatives on April 30th passed its version of the Farm Bill, officially known as the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026. Unfortunately, legislators failed to include a restoration of nutrition benefits severely cut last year. 

Please urge your senators to oppose the House bill and support legislation that upholds the gospel mandate to feed the hungry. Adding concerns about food insecurity in your community, and including examples, will strengthen your message.

Background

A year ago, Catholic sisters and partners around the country united in opposition to proposed cuts to federal food and healthcare programs. Despite large-scale advocacy with legislators and public witness outside the U.S. Capitol and numerous other locales, Congress passed H.R. 1. This bill, officially known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, included a historic $187 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which persons of low income rely on to meet their food needs.

In the following months, between July 2025 and January 2026, participation in SNAP fell by more than 3 million people, the largest reduction in 30 years, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. States are anticipating billions of dollars in lost federal funds, and some are already making it harder for people to enroll or renew their benefits. 

The Farm Bill, which is renewed every few years, traditionally has supported agriculture programs and funded nutrition assistance, often for working Americans unable to pay expenses with one or more jobs.

Senators have the opportunity to demonstrate compassion and a commitment to strong communities by drafting a Farm Bill that reverses harmful nutritional assistance cuts.