Updated Provisions Aim to Cut Error Rates and Boost Oversight
Chairman John Boozman of the Senate Agriculture Committee announced that the parliamentarian has approved revised legislative provisions related to SNAP cost-sharing and eligibility, affirming they meet the Byrd rule requirements. These changes are set to enhance how states manage the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The update allows states to base their cost-sharing obligation on either Fiscal Year 2025 or Fiscal Year 2026 payment error rates, starting in Fiscal Year 2028. From Fiscal Year 2029 onward, states must use the payment error rate from three years prior to determine their share.
States with error rates above six percent will be required to contribute a set percentage of SNAP benefit costs. This aims to motivate better program practices and reduce mismanagement.
“This paves the way for important reforms that improve efficiency and management of SNAP while encouraging responsible use of taxpayer dollars,” Boozman said. “In 2023 alone, over $10 billion was misspent when administering this program – underscoring the need for stronger accountability.”
These updates offer flexibility for state agencies while promoting improved delivery of services. The goal is to ensure that support reaches those who genuinely qualify while minimizing costly errors.
Each June, states receive their updated payment error rates, which are key to determining if cost-sharing will apply. The revised framework also provides time for states to adjust their operations to meet the new expectations.
With these measures, the Senate aims to make SNAP more efficient, accountable, and tailored to both state performance and public need.