Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Earlier today, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) finalized a rule that supports the Administration’s commitment to promoting employment by applying common-sense standards to policies affecting able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP) benefits. House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member K. Michael Conaway (TX-11) released this statement following the announcement:

“Not everyone in this country is able to work. Many SNAP recipients are disabled, or serve as the primary caregiver for a child or elderly relative. But for those whose situations allow it, employment is a chance to regain dignity and purpose, and contribute to our economy and society. We should not count these individuals out simply based on the circumstances they find themselves in today. The 2018 Farm Bill enhanced educational opportunities and training programs dedicated to serving SNAP recipients, ensuring that everyone looking to improve their situation has the chance to do so; USDA will be building on those efforts in the near future.

“I applaud Secretary Perdue’s decision to move forward with this rule, and look forward to continued efforts that move more Americans from poverty to prosperity.”