VA Dems say Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ will hurt Virginians on SNAP

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia Democrats are sounding the alarm on the future of SNAP benefits in Virginia. 

“It is just too much for states all across the country,” Delegate Mark Sickles (D-Fairfax), who chairs the House Human Services Committee, told 8News. 

That’s because the budget bill passed by the House of Representatives reduces how much money the federal government spends on SNAP by $267 billion over the next 10 years, while leaving states to make up the shortfall. 

“Absolutely, people might be forced to lose their benefits. It depends on how much we can afford with all the other cuts that the House of Representatives is proposing,” Sickles explained. 

Currently, the federal government covers the entire cost of SNAP benefits awarded to Virginians. However, under this bill, Virginia would be required to pay at least 5% of the cost of SNAP benefits awarded in the state, starting in Fiscal Year 2028.

According to the left-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, that could cost Virginia anywhere from $88-$439 million, depending on how efficiently the state runs its SNAP program. 

“We would have a big challenge, as you suggest, in figuring out what we need to do here at the state to backfill certain programs,” Sickles said.

Sickles added that to keep funding levels for SNAP the same, the General Assembly would be forced to cut funds from other key priorities, or try to generate additional revenue. 

“Any type of tax increase would be a last resort. It would not be a first resort,” Sickles said.

8News reached out to all five Republican members of Virginia’s Congressional delegation, all of whom voted for what President Trump calls “one big, beautiful bill.” 

Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) and Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) sent 8News the statements below. Congresswoman Jen Kiggans’ (VA-02) office pointed 8News to this statement on Kiggans’ website. 

Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09) and Congressman John McGuire’s (VA-05) offices didn’t respond to 8News' inquiries. 

“I believe states should share in SNAP costs to promote accountability, reduce waste, and ensure the program serves those truly in need. Unlike other entitlement programs, SNAP is fully federally funded, giving states little incentive to control costs or enforce eligibility rules. This has led to a surge in enrollment, misuse of eligibility loopholes, lax enforcement of work requirements, and $13 billion in annual payment errors. Cost-sharing would align incentives, improve oversight, and ensure more timely and accurate service to recipients.” Rep. Rob Wittman (R) (VA-01)

"Having states take on a small share of benefit and administrative costs promotes stronger oversight and more responsible program management. These are smart, targeted changes that strengthen SNAP and ensure it remains a reliable resource for families who truly need it.” Rep. Ben Cline (R) (VA-06)

The bill still needs to pass the Senate and be signed into law by President Trump for any of the aforementioned changes to SNAP to take effect.