House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is set to unveil his new debt limit negotiating proposal, which includes broad measures to restrict food assistance for low-income Americans. The initial plan involves expanding the age bracket for individuals who must meet work requirements to participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Food Assistance Program (SNAP), while also addressing perceived “loopholes” in existing restrictions.

SNAP currently serves 41 million low-income Americans. Advocates caution that any cuts to this critical program could lead the nation toward a looming “hunger cliff,” especially as families continue to grapple with the economic aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly in rural areas. Recent studies indicate that a quarter of Americans are experiencing food insecurity, representing a 5 percent increase from the same period last year.

From a political standpoint, the discussion surrounding the reduction of SNAP benefits is already creating pressure for many Republicans who represent districts won by President Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Concerns have been raised internally among these members, particularly regarding proposals from their colleagues that would introduce work requirements for low-income parents with children under 18 living at home.

Conversely, it is important to note that Senate Democrats have firmly stated that such measures are unlikely to pass in the upper chamber. In the past, with the assistance of key Senate Republicans, they have successfully thwarted numerous similar efforts from House Republicans. As one anonymous GOP Senate aide stated, “I mean, Godspeed. Get what you can. We’re going to live in reality over here,” highlighting the skepticism surrounding the viability of these measures.

McCarthy‘s debt limit negotiating proposal, which includes restrictions on food assistance, has raised concerns among advocates who fear a worsening hunger crisis. The political landscape poses additional challenges, with Senate Democrats rejecting such measures and previous House GOP attempts being blocked by bipartisan opposition. The ultimate fate of these proposals remains uncertain.