Alabama House, Senate Democrats to hold press conference on SNAP today

Alabama House and Senate Democrats will hold a press conference today at the front steps of the State House to urge Gov. Kay Ivey to address the suspension of SNAP benefits as the government shutdown drags on. 

Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton, House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, and Democratic Caucus members from both chambers will deliver remarks. 

“We all recognize that this a federal issue, but we cannot ignore its impact on Alabama where over 750,000 of our neighbors could go hungry. The Governor needs to call a special session so that we can deal with this crisis immediately and then we can use our rainy day funds to feed families until the federal government reaches a solution," said Singleton. 

"We’re asking the Governor to take action now because it's the right thing to do for hardworking families across the state that are struggling to make ends meet, especially as we approach the holidays.”

Daniels stated, “No kid should go to bed hungry in Alabama simply because politicians in Washington can’t reach an agreement. As legislators, we have a moral obligation to address this crisis and use state resources to bridge the gap. Also, people need to understand the devastating impact this will have on Alabama’s economy."

"According to The Alabama Grocers Association disruptions could cost Alabama up to $1.7 billion in annual federal funds, leading to a total economic loss of $2.55 billion. That’s why we need to have a special session right now so that we can not only feed families, but also make sure that we support local businesses that will be harmed by the suspension of SNAP benefits.”

The press conference will be held at 10:30 a.m.