Senate Passes Farm Bill Without SNAP Work Requirements

The Senate passed its version of the 2018 Farm Bill with an overwhelming 86-11 vote June 28, sparking what could become a battle with the House by omitting the controversial work requirements for food stamps. 

Partners of the grocery industry reacted favorably to the development. Greg Ferrara, NGA's EVP of advocacy, public relations and member services, said the association is pleased to see the bill "uphold a strong SNAP public-private partnership" and will work to ensure a Farm Bill is enacted that "will protect and empower independent grocers to grow their businesses and better serve their customers.”

Additionally, Food Marketing Institute Senior Director of Technology and Nutrition Policy Hannah Walker said the institute is "extremely pleased that the Senate voted with strong bipartisan support to pass its Farm Bill."

"On behalf of our members, we look forward to working with both the House and Senate as the two bills head to conference," she said. "We remain committed to making sure the final legislation maintains the integrity of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and drives innovation and efficiency that will make the program run even better for our members’ customers in the future.”