Senator Ricketts’ Weekly Column: SNAP Next Step

Make government work with proven Nebraska solutions that are ready for America. That is my mission as your U.S. Senator. When I was Governor, my administration implemented numerous solutions to improve the lives of Nebraskans. Now, I’m working on behalf of our state in Washington, D.C., to implement many of those proven Nebraska solutions for the rest of the country.

When I was Governor, one of the Nebraska solutions I implemented was the SNAP Next Step program. SNAP Next Step helps low-income Nebraskans find higher-quality, higher-paying jobs. We offered job coaches in the Department of Labor to our families on SNAP. They helped Nebraskans with job training, resume writing, and interview coaching to find better work.

The results of the Nebraska SNAP Next Step program were incredible. Of the hundreds of families that participated, about sixty percent were able to get off SNAP entirely. Forty percent reduced their need for SNAP benefits. On average, they increased their monthly income by more than $2,100. That’s $25,200 more each year.  

By the end of my time as Governor, hundreds of families had found new employment. Many are now working more predictable hours, allowing them to spend more time together with their families. We owe it to struggling Americans to provide them opportunities for a hand up and not just a handout.

SNAP Next Step is also responsible government. While workers’ pay increased, the average SNAP benefit dropped from about $508 to $179. The program makes people less dependent on government assistance. It empowers people to improve their quality of life through work. And, frankly, it helps them reduce or eliminate their need for nutrition assistance. The Next Step program also uses SNAP administrative fees for funding, so it doesn’t cost any additional taxpayer money.

When I came to the Senate, the very first piece of legislation I introduced was the SNAP Next Step Act. Since then, I’ve continued fighting to unlock opportunity, strengthen families, and rein in big government. That’s why I recently reintroduced this bill for this Congress, joined by New York Senator Gillibrand as the leading Democrat co-sponsor.

Providing Americans with the training they need to find new jobs provides them with better outcomes. It helps lower government spending. It also helps our businesses who are navigating a workforce shortage. This is a win-win-win. We’ve demonstrated here in Nebraska that we can do it.

Washington can learn a lot from Nebraska. Nebraska is what America is supposed to be. SNAP Next Step helps workers in Nebraska and will help workers across America on the path to a more stable financial situation. The SNAP Next Step Act will be a win for families, a win for our workforce, and a win for taxpayers. It promotes self-sufficiency and grit. It worked in Nebraska, and it is ready for America.

My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224. You can also view my website at http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact.