Allegheny College Professor Examines How SNAP Changes Might Affect Food Access in Greater Pittsburgh

Amelia Finaret, associate professor of business and economics and global health, recently authored a story for The Conversation U.S. that explores the knock-on effects of more stringent conditions to obtain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Late last year, Pennsylvania adopted the federal government's expanded work requirements, which means adults seeking SNAP benefits must work, volunteer, or take part in education or training programs for at least 20 hours a week. Finaret writes that this could increase benefit denials, especially among early retirees, first-time moms, and people with disabilities.

An additional rule implemented earlier this year requires retailers to offer seven varieties of foods in each of four staple food categories: grains, dairy, protein, and fruits and vegetables. Finaret writes that while the rule is meant to increase access to healthy food, it could inadvertently harm both SNAP beneficiaries and retailers. Small and independent retailers who can't fulfill the new requirement could lose their ability to accept SNAP, which - especially in areas with fewer grocers - could not only limit residents' access to food, but the store's financial stability.

SNAP spending, the article reads, boosts local economies while reducing food insecurity.

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