The Alaska House of Representatives appropriated more than $6 million in funding to assist Alaskan families who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to meet feed their families. Some 82,000 Alaskans used SNAP benefits.
The legislation, House Bill 79, was introduced by the House Rules Committee upon the request of the governor and passed in a vote of 38 to 1.
The SNAP food stamp program has had with a backlog of unprocessed applications for months due to staffing issues and other factors. This has left many Alaskans in desperate situations, without basic food supplies. The passage of this bill is a critical step in bringing relief to these Alaskan families and individuals.
“The situation for many was desperate and we needed to act as fast as was prudently possible,” said Rep. Mike Prax of North Pole and chair of House Health and Social Services. “While I’d like to see a more long-term and sustainable solution, the time to debate that is later, but the bottom line is that some Alaskans were literally suffering from malnutrition and that had to be addressed now.”
“With over 82 thousand beneficiaries, SNAP provides a critical safety net to Alaskans, especially those in rural communities,” said Bryce Edgmon of Dillingham, House Finance co-chair. “It is unfortunate that it took this long to address the backlog, but I’m glad the House was able to fast-track this funding.”
“Many Alaskans, particularly those in rural and remote areas depend on SNAP to supplement their food supply. When these services are not available many of these Alaskans, particularly children and the elderly, go without basic food staples. It was critical that we pass this measure to ensure the food security of Alaskans,” said Rep. Neal Foster of Nome, co-chair of Finance.
“I am pleased that the House took swift action on the floor to address the backlog of SNAP benefits and the needs of hungry Alaskans. I’d like to thank the Governor, members of the House Finance Committee, and all my colleagues for their efficient work on this bill,” said Rep. DeLena Johnson of Palmer and co-chair of Finance.
