'No data, no money': USDA says states who don't hand over info will lose SNAP funding

USDA is combing through states’ SNAP recipient data to reduce ineligible enrollment, but 21 Democrat-governed states have so far refused to provide that information, citing citizen privacy concerns.

Rollins says the data USDA has reviewed “shows clear misuse” of SNAP, such as benefits going to deceased participants or people claiming benefits in multiple states. Publicly available data shows that states had an average SNAP payment error rate of just under 11% in 2024, though how much is attributable to fraud is not listed.

“This is about restoring dignity and responsibility. We’re ending a system where some were taking advantage while honest, hardworking Americans foot the bill,” Rollins added in a video published Tuesday. 

“To the 21 states who have yet to send us their data, what is it that you are hiding? Let’s partner together to defend the taxpayer and make sure that those who are most vulnerable among us are receiving the benefits.”

The federal government funds 100% of SNAP benefits and a large portion of administrative costs. It spent $99.8 billion on 41.7 million enrollees in fiscal year 2024, USDA data shows. 

Republicans’ budget reconciliation bill, among other changes, split federal and state administrative cost-sharing 50/50 and imposed new work requirements, which are expected to save the federal government hundreds of billions over the next decade.

Beginning in fiscal year 2028, it also forces states with payment error rates between 6% and 8% to cover 5% of benefits costs, with the cost share rising to 15% for states with payment error rates of 10% or above.

Rollins said additional fraud-reduction efforts will continue, adding that all USDA programs, including SNAP, are undergoing “significant review” to ensure that noncitizens illegally in the U.S. are not receiving federal benefits.

But House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig, D-Minn., accused Rollins of showing “disregard for the law.”

“Secretary Rollins continues to spew propaganda, attacking a food assistance program which 42 million Americans rely on to feed their families,” Craig said. “Rather than address the rising cost of living, the secretary is once again weaponizing hunger by putting political talking points ahead of feeding seniors, children, veterans and Americans with disabilities.” 

Twenty-two Democratic attorneys general recently sued the USDA for planning to end SNAP benefits for noncitizens who are legal permanent residents, The Center Square reported.