SNAP work requirements included in farm bill

The proposed Federal Farm bill working its way through Congress contains work requirements for able-bodied 18- to 59-year-olds who receive SNAP benefits. A beneficiary would have to work or be enrolled in a work training program at least 20 hours a week. 

5th District Republican Congressman Ralph Abraham says the requirement will filter out persons who choose to take advantage of the welfare system.

"I'm sure there are some that want to work, but again… if they want to be recipients of this SNAP program, then they are going to have to 'get in the game' and do what we ask them to do," said Abraham.

Abraham says the work requirement is not intended to harm individuals, but to help break the cycle of poverty and help people climb the economic ladder.

"I look at it as offering them an opportunity, not penalizing them for receiving SNAP, but that's an opportunity to improve their lifestyle."

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