“Montana Food Bank Network is disappointed by the passage of the final tax bill and remains concerned about its impact on individuals and families struggling with hunger in every community across our state. Most low and middle-income families in the U.S. will see little benefit, with many even experiencing tax increases by the end of the decade. Instead, the legislation sets up likely cuts to SNAP and other programs that strengthen our communities and serve as a safety net for all of us. Rather than setting up cuts to programs like SNAP, we should be supporting programs that make a real difference in Montana. SNAP effectively reduces hunger; improving health outcomes, educational attainment, and increasing productivity. The program remains crucial as 1 in 8 Montanans struggle with hunger, including 45,000 children. Approximately 1 in 5 Montana kids receive SNAP, ensuring they get the nourishment they need to grow and succeed. Any attempts to cut SNAP or other crucial programs as a means to ‘pay for’ this tax plan will be unacceptable.

In addition, the repeal of the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate is projected to leave 13 million more people uninsured, raise premiums for millions more, and cause uncertainty and instability in the individual health insurance market. Many Montana families will see their insurance costs go up as a result, making it even harder to make ends meet.

In passing this tax plan, Congress failed to prioritize those Americans and Montanans who most need help. Please join us in continuing to fight for programs and policies that will reduce hunger in our state in the coming year.”