SNAP Access

Tell the USDA: Neighbor island food costs need to be considered in SNAP allotments!

Currently, SNAP allotments in Hawai‘i are determined without taking neighbor island costs into account (only Honolulu is considered). This change, which took effect in 2022, caused Hawai’i to be the only state to receive a cut to SNAP benefits.

OVERVIEW

What is the Thrifty Food Plan?

  • The Thrifty Food Plan decides the maximum monthly SNAP benefits for families based on food costs.

Why does it matter?

  • Because of a previous push for more accurate data, the USDA has proposed a rule to ensure food costs reflect statewide food prices rather than just Honolulu-based costs.

  • Without this rule, Hawai’i would be the only state in the nation to see a drop in monthly benefits — 20% over the next five years.

What can I do to help?

The USDA is asking for your comments on this proposed rule, which ensures that neighbor island food prices are considered in SNAP benefits. More information can be found below.

TAKE ACTION

How to Submit Comments

  • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. 

  • Mail: Send comments to Kevin Meyers Mathieu, Economic Advisor, Nutrition Guidance and Analysis Division, Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1320 Braddock Place, Fourth Floor, Alexandria, VA 22314

  • Email: FNS.FoodPlans@usda.gov.

Comments are due by February 3rd.

    • Every month, SNAP adds an average of $53 million to the grocery buying power of Hawaiʻi families. These cuts will harm families relying on SNAP to survive, local businesses, farmers, and food producers that depend on local businesses

    • Neighbor islands have higher food costs than Honolulu, and that needs to be considered.

    • Rural and neighbor island businesses/residents will be disproportionately harmed by this rule.

    • Many Hawaiʻi shoppers rely on small, family markets, particularly on the neighbor islands.

    • The Thrifty Food Plan market basket should be culturally representative of the foods many Hawaiʻi families eat.

    Be personal: Feel free to share your own experiences or observations about food costs in Hawaiʻi.