Over 2.9 million Floridians could face reduced food assistance if Congress proceeds with a plan to cut $230 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) over nearly a decade. Some congressional leaders propose that states contribute to SNAP funding, which has not been required before.
To cover a portion of SNAP benefits, Florida lawmakers might need to increase revenue, reduce funding for other programs, lower SNAP benefit levels, restrict eligibility, or combine these measures. This proposal coincides with state economists forecasting a $2.8 billion deficit in FY 2026-27, expected to rise to $6.9 billion in FY 2027-28.
The potential requirement for states to fund part of SNAP could significantly impact Florida’s budget. A 5% state match would cost about $328 million in 2026, while a 10% match would amount to approximately $657 million—more than the state’s FY 2024-25 affordable housing expenditure. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, this would mark the first time federal food benefits are not fully funded by the government.
These proposed cuts aim to offset costs associated with extending tax cuts for wealthier residents, which could total around $1.1 trillion over ten years. Sadaf Knight, CEO of the nonpartisan Florida Policy Institute (FPI), expressed concern: “Floridians are already facing barriers to economic self-sufficiency because of the state’s inadequate safety net — the plan to potentially cut $230 billion in food assistance at the federal level at a time when our state is already projecting a deficit over the next three years would be catastrophic.”
In Florida, more than half of families using SNAP have children, and over 41% include seniors or adults with disabilities. Research indicates that SNAP reduces food insecurity and is linked to better health and economic outcomes and lower medical costs for participants.
Rural Floridians may be particularly affected as they participate in SNAP at higher rates than urban residents. With SNAP benefits spent at over 15,100 grocery stores statewide, every additional dollar spent generates $1.50 in economic activity within local communities.
“We strongly urge Florida’s congressional delegation to actively oppose any proposals that cut SNAP,” added Knight.
FPI is an independent organization focused on improving economic mobility and quality of life through state policies and budgets.
