Budget Reconciliation: Byrd Rule Strikes Two Harmful SNAP Provisions,
But Action Still Needed Our advocacy is making an impact – but we’re not done yet! FRAC was relieved to see the news last night that the Senate Parliamentarian said that two of the many harmful SNAP provisions in the reconciliation bill – the benefit cost-sharing provision and eliminating immigrant eligibility – would violate the Senate’s Byrd Rule and, therefore, would be subject to a 60-vote threshold if included in the bill. So, at this moment – and in their current text – these provisions will be removed from the bill. While this news is encouraging, the fight is far from over. The Senate will continue to try to hit the current target to cut hundreds of billions of dollars from SNAP and will be looking for a work around for these two provisions and/or seek other cuts. The bill remains problematic and urgent advocacy is needed – Leader Thune (R-SD) still intends to move the bill in the coming week. Action Needed Immediately Please use the weekend to leave messages (Capitol Switchboard – 202-224-3121) for your Republican Senators urging them to oppose the bill. As part of that conversation, let them know that you are relieved by the Parliamentarian’s decision and ask them to weigh in with Sens. Thune and Boozman (R-AR) on the harm any cost sharing provision, as well as the entire bill itself, would have on your state. We cannot let Congress make any cuts to SNAP and strip food away from millions of people who rely on the program. The ripple effects on families, farmers, food retailers, and beyond would undermine decades of progress in the fight against hunger. We know you have been working tirelessly to fight back against the bill – keep up the great work! And keep your eye open for more advocacy actions this coming week, including the #EmptyPlatesProtest starting Monday, which encourages people to fast to stand in solidarity with the tens of millions of people who struggle to put food on the table. Please also encourage your contacts to use the FRAC Action Network to send a message directly to Senators to urge them to vote “no” on this harmful bill. Get Vocal on Social The Senate is getting ready to vote on a bill that would slash SNAP and take food away from millions of children, veterans, and older adults. We can't let this happen. Contact your Senators today and urge them to Vote “No” on the #biguglybill. https://ctt.ec/4om51+ | 
