First Decline In Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

The United States saw its first decline in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, also known as food stamps, since the start of the Great Recession, according to University of New Hampshire researchers.

From the beginning of the Great Recession in 2007 until 2012, SNAP receipt use grew steadily. Participation in and funding for the program grew as the changing economy intensified efforts to enroll eligible populations, specifically through the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

However, in 2013, SNAP receipts fell slightly, an indicator of a slowly recovering economy, reported the university's Carsey School of Public Policy. However, a substantial number of households still reported receiving SNAP benefits in 2013 compared to pre-recession numbers, the report noted.

Funding for SNAP, which is part of the farm bill, has not been substantially cut by the president's proposed fiscal year 2016 budget.