H.R.1528 - America Works Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1528, the America Works Act of 2025, proposes amendments to the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, specifically targeting work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The bill aims to standardize these work requirements and modify existing exceptions and waiver provisions.
Key changes include revising the exception criteria for ABAWDs and altering the conditions under which states can request waivers of these requirements. The bill also seeks to repeal a section of the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 related to SNAP work requirements.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Agriculture.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to tighten work requirements for SNAP benefits, potentially reducing the number of individuals eligible for the program. States may have less flexibility in waiving these requirements based on local economic conditions.
This could lead to some ABAWDs finding employment to maintain their benefits, while others may lose access to food assistance. The repeal of the Fiscal Responsibility Act provision suggests an intent to further refine or adjust existing SNAP regulations.
Potential Benefits
- May incentivize some unemployed individuals to seek and obtain employment.
- Could potentially reduce government spending on SNAP benefits.
- Standardized work requirements could lead to more consistent application of the rules across different states.
- Focuses resources on those deemed most in need by maintaining exceptions for vulnerable populations (children, elderly, disabled, pregnant women).
- Could lead to a more efficient allocation of resources within the SNAP program.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could lead to some eligible individuals losing food assistance due to stricter work requirements.
- May disproportionately affect individuals in areas with limited job opportunities or those facing barriers to employment (e.g., lack of transportation, childcare).
- Reduced state flexibility could hinder the ability to respond to local economic downturns.
- Increased administrative burden for states to verify compliance with the new requirements.
- Potential for increased food insecurity among those unable to meet the work requirements.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution primarily concerns the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). Congress has broad authority to legislate for the general welfare, including establishing and regulating social safety net programs like SNAP.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights enumerated in the Bill of Rights. The standardization of work requirements and modification of waiver provisions fall within the purview of Congress's power to regulate federal programs.
However, debates may arise regarding whether the specific provisions of the bill effectively promote the general welfare or disproportionately burden certain populations. These are policy considerations rather than direct constitutional violations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).