Ann Arbor Times

Millions of Americans are set to lose their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits starting November 1, according to Luke Shaefer, a professor at the University of Michigan and faculty director of Poverty Solutions. Shaefer emphasized that SNAP is a crucial part of many families’ budgets, influencing decisions not only about food but also other essentials like rent and utilities.

Discussing the broader impact on local economies, Shaefer explained that SNAP injects about $7.8 billion into communities each month, primarily through grocery stores that accept EBT cards. "So we’re not just talking about families being impacted. Grocery stores will have to make decisions about how to make up for not having that money. They may lay people off, and that will ripple through the economy, too," he said.

Shaefer noted that children would be particularly affected by the suspension of SNAP benefits. He pointed out existing evidence showing behavioral challenges in schools and declines in test performance when SNAP funds run low during regular benefit cycles. "We know that SNAP and the food it provides have a positive impact—especially for young children—and access to SNAP in childhood can improve health in adulthood," he said. If the suspension lasts more than a month or two, he expects negative effects on school performance and attendance, with possible long-term consequences.

Regarding whether food banks could fill the gap left by lost SNAP benefits, Shaefer was clear: "There’s just no way food pantries can make up for that kind of change. I’d expect to see longer lines and a significant surge in demand, which will put a lot of pressure on our systems. It will only get worse with time, but even in the first month, food banks won’t be able to fill that gap."

Shaefer warned that removing $7.8 billion from local economies each month could create significant economic pressure and potentially lead to recession or increased hardship, especially in rural areas where communities depend heavily on SNAP.

Reflecting on past government shutdowns, Shaefer recalled: "There was a government shutdown longer than the one we’re in now during the first Trump administration, and we weren’t talking about suspending SNAP benefits then. Policymakers found a way to continue the program." He stressed that this is ultimately a policy decision: "There are mechanisms in place that could allow partial or full benefits to be paid in November. If the administration wanted to do it, they could. This is a decision that’s being made."