1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding the recent actions of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) during the ongoing government shutdown. It has come to my attention that the USDA is actively warning stores not to offer discounts to individuals relying on food stamps, citing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) 'Equal Treatment Rule'. This directive is not only misguided but profoundly cruel, especially given the current circumstances. The government shutdown has already placed an enormous burden on many of our most vulnerable citizens, and now the USDA's stance is effectively punishing both struggling families and compassionate businesses trying to help. The SNAP program is designed to ensure food security for low-income individuals and families. During a government shutdown, when many federal employees and contractors are without pay, the need for assistance is even more critical. By preventing stores from offering discounts to SNAP recipients, the USDA is exacerbating food insecurity and causing unnecessary hardship. Furthermore, this interpretation of the 'Equal Treatment Rule' seems to contradict the very spirit of the SNAP program. The rule was intended to prevent discrimination against SNAP recipients, not to block additional aid during times of crisis. This overly strict interpretation is harming the very people the program is meant to protect. I urge you to take immediate action to address this issue. Please work with your colleagues to: 1. Call on the USDA to rescind this harmful directive immediately. 2. Introduce or support legislation that clarifies the 'Equal Treatment Rule' to allow for additional discounts during national emergencies or government shutdowns. 3. Ensure that SNAP benefits continue to be paid despite the shutdown, as mandated by court orders. The current situation highlights a critical moment in our nation's approach to social welfare and emergency response. Your leadership on this issue could make a significant difference in the lives of countless Americans struggling to put food on the table during this challenging time. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to hearing about the steps you will take to address this cruel and counterproductive policy.