“The ongoing federal shutdown has already devastated millions of Americans through mass layoffs and the destruction of crucial government programs. Now, this manufactured crisis threatens to cut off food assistance for 680,000 Marylanders, including 270,000 children, when SNAP benefits expire on November 1.

 

“This modest lifeline, averaging just $180 per person monthly, is all that stands between survival and hunger for working families, seniors, and people with disabilities already struggling to make ends meet.

 

“But SNAP isn't just about feeding families; it's also an economic engine for Maryland. Estimates indicate that every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.50 in economic activity, which directly supports neighborhood grocery stores, farmers' markets, and food retailers, while creating jobs and sustaining small businesses in communities throughout Maryland. When SNAP is cut, our local retailers suffer, our farmers lose customers, and our economy contracts. According to the Maryland Retailers Alliance, local grocers already work with a low profit margin of 1% to 3%. For some of these retailers, SNAP contributes a substantial portion of their business. Without SNAP benefits available for significant time periods, some Maryland food retailers may close.

 

The Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans have chosen to hold essential services hostage rather than govern responsibly and provide help to Americans by providing healthcare subsidies. Republicans should agree to negotiate with Democrats and reinstate health insurance subsidies, end this shutdown, restore the essential services they’ve cut, and put the well-being of the American people above political games. I will work with the Moore-Miller Administration and our retailers to do all we can to support Marylanders and retailers during this incredibly challenging time.”