Debt Bill Changes to Nutrition Rile Up Lawmakers in Both Parties

Republicans pushed for expanded work requirements for nutrition programs under the debt ceiling agreement as a cost-cutting maneuver.

But the changes would actually boost spending over the next decade, according to new spending projections from the Congressional Budget Office.

The debt ceiling agreement between President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) would subject able-bodied adults in their early 50s to stricter work rules than those under existing law. As is, able-bodied adults without dependents aged 18 to 49 can only receive benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for three months in three years unless they track 20 ...