The National Grocers Association (NGA) and FMI – The Food Industry have applauded Congress for reopening the government and funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through 2026.
Throughout the shutdown, independent grocers stepped up to fill the void when SNAP benefits were disrupted. Across the country, local grocers kept their doors open, partnered with food banks and distributed store gift cards to ensure their neighbors could continue putting food on the table.
[RELATED: Food Industry Associations Urge Congress To End Government Shutdown]
FMI – The Food Industry Association
FMI welcomed the passage of legislation to fund and reopen the federal government and ensure that feeding assistance programs are able to start providing benefits again.
“We are extremely pleased that Congress has reopened the government and that federal funding of SNAP benefits will be fully restored. Reopening the government and passing the Agriculture Appropriations legislation provides clarity and food for families in need. It also ensures that for the next year, the federal hunger and food security program remains dependable for those who rely on SNAP, school meals or WIC to get through difficult times,” said FMI Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher.
“We are proud of the way our retailer and supplier members stepped up during this difficult time to support their communities through a variety of food and household product donation programs, discounted pricing and enhanced funding for neighborhood organizations.”
National Grocers Association (NGA)
NGA also commended congressional leaders for advancing policies in the legislation that support independent community grocers. The bill includes a continuation of the prohibition on SNAP EBT transaction or processing fees on SNAP authorized retailers, as well as a key provision that requires the Food and Drug Administration to coordinate with industry leaders to ensure regulations are workable, systems are aligned and employees are sufficiently trained.
“Their professionalism, compassion and commitment reflect the very best of America’s independent grocery industry and why these grocers truly are at the heart of their communities,” NGA said in a statement.
The association noted these legislative outcomes reaffirm NGA’s role as an advocate for independent grocers. Through partnerships, engagement and representation in Washington, NGA helped secure protections for retailers and consumers. NGA expressed gratitude to the hundreds of member companies who responded to the grassroots call to action by contacting their elected representatives and sharing personal testimonials.
NGA said it remains committed to working with policymakers and regulators to ensure that independent grocers remain strong, competitive and ready to serve the communities that rely on them.