OR Congresswoman Janelle Bynum introduces bills to safeguard SNAP and rural health centers

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) Oregon Congresswoman Janelle Bynum and Alabama Congressman Shomari C. Figures recently introduced two pieces of legislation in Congress. The Save SNAP Act and the Rural Health Resilience Act aim to bolster federal food assistance and provide financial aid to rural health centers across the United States.

The Save SNAP Act is designed to protect access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by ensuring federal dollars continue to reach states even if new budget proposals prevent them from meeting cost-sharing requirements. Concurrently, the Rural Health Resilience Act focuses on delivering essential financial assistance to rural health facilities.

Congresswoman Bynum, representing Oregon's 5th congressional district, highlighted the importance of equitable access to basic services for all Americans. "Access to necessities like health care or food shouldn't be dependent on where you live," Rep. Bynum said. "I am proud to introduce these two bills to make sure rural health centers get the support they need and Americans across the country have access to the food assistance they rely on." The Save SNAP Act directly addresses potential disruptions to federal food assistance. It would ensure that states continue to receive federal SNAP dollars even if they cannot or do not meet new cost-sharing requirements outlined in the Republicans' budget bill. Congressman Figures, who represents Alabama's 2nd congressional district, co-introduced both bills. The Rural Health Resilience Act specifically seeks to provide financial support to rural health centers, aiming to strengthen their operations.