On the 61st anniversary of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting families despite recent federal budget reductions to the program.
“For sixty-one years, the SNAP program has been one of the most effective tools we have to fight hunger and poverty,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “It keeps children nourished so they can learn, helps older adults stay healthy and allows working families to focus on getting ahead instead of worrying about their next meal.
“Sadly, the budget cuts approved by the Republican Congress and signed into law by President Trump threaten to devastate the program in New Mexico. We will do everything in our power to protect New Mexicans and help them keep food on their tables, but states simply can’t absorb budget cuts of this magnitude.”
According to state officials, about 458,000 residents use SNAP each month. The program not only provides food assistance but also contributes economically; for every dollar spent through SNAP, up to $1.80 is generated in economic activity within New Mexico.
A federal spending bill known as H.R. 1 was signed into law by President Trump on July 4. The measure reduces SNAP funding by an estimated $186 billion over ten years, based on projections from the Congressional Budget Office. States will now be responsible for a larger share of administrative costs—75% instead of 50%. For New Mexico taxpayers, this means an additional annual cost of $47 million. The legislation also eliminates $5.2 million in federal nutrition education funds and introduces more work requirements for some recipients.
“SNAP has been a bipartisan success story for six decades because it works: it reduces hunger, alleviates the burden of poverty, improves health and academic outcomes, and strengthens communities,” said Health Care Authority Secretary Kari Armijo. “The Health Care Authority sees the faces behind the statistics, and we will explore all of our options to help the families who need it most.”
State officials are reviewing ways to reduce harm from these congressional changes, including considering whether state funds could be used to offset some losses.
SNAP began with President Lyndon B. Johnson’s signing of the Food Stamp Act in 1964 and is now recognized as America’s largest anti-hunger initiative serving over 40 million people each year.
While some households may experience changes due to these new policies, SNAP remains available for those in need across New Mexico. Residents can apply online at YES.NM.GOV, by phone at 1-800-283-4465, or at any Health Care Authority Income Support Division office.
