Senate Republicans exclude Democrats’ food aid demand from farm bill

Senate Republicans’ draft farm bill rejects Democratic calls to delay a planned shift that would require some states to help pay for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, putting bipartisan support for the bill at risk.

Democrats say they will oppose the measure unless the cost-sharing requirement is postponed, while some Republicans from affected states have also expressed concerns.

Senate Agriculture Chair John Boozman previewed the discussion draft ahead of its public release, though he still needs some Democratic votes to reach the 60-vote threshold.

The proposal also leaves out several GOP and agriculture industry priorities, which could lead to further amendments during committee markup, Politico has reported.

Negotiations are ongoing as lawmakers attempt to finalize a version of the bill that can pass both chambers.