Adams Opposes “Cruel” Cuts to Food Assistance in Trump Budget

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D., (NC-12) released the following statement about President Trump's $4.8 trillion budget, which proposes deep cuts to critical safety net programs:

"This Administration doesn't have any understanding or sympathy for food insecure people. Elementary schools in Charlotte have had to start food pantries so students and their families don't starve," said Congresswoman Adams. "Federal anti-hunger programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) play a vital role in the lives of 12th District families."

"SNAP lifted 1.5 million children out of poverty in 2017. Over 20 million children rely on SNAP, which decreases child hunger and promotes stronger learning and academic performance. Properly funded, investments in SNAP also help local businesses and ease food insecurity in food deserts."

"This President wants to pay for his billionaire tax cuts by letting children starve. President Trump's proposal to cut SNAP benefits comes on the heels of three administrative rules which will cut benefits from almost 4 million Americans and jeopardize 1 million children's access to free school breakfast and lunch. This Administration is not only cruel; the cruelty is the point of their policy. I will strongly oppose any cuts to SNAP."

Congresswoman Adams serves as Vice Chair of the House Agriculture Committee, which has jurisdiction over agriculture issues, including SNAP.