A new bipartisan bill could change SNAP. It aims to help seniors and people with disabilities. U.S. Reps. Josh Riley and Mike Lawler introduced the bill. The Increasing Nutrition Access for Seniors Act of 2025 cuts red tape. It simplifies the food assistance program. This helps families get the food they need.
Cutting Red Tape for Seniors
The bill targets complex rules in the SNAP program. Many seniors find the current system difficult. They face yearly paperwork and must track many receipts. Rep. Riley said people should not have to fight through forms for food. “This bill cuts the red tape,” Riley stated. It makes getting groceries easier for eligible seniors. The goal is to clear hurdles for those on fixed incomes.
How the New Bill Changes SNAP
The act proposes three major changes to modernize SNAP. These changes reduce the burden on applicants. They make the process much more efficient for everyone involved.
- Longer Certification Periods: Seniors would recertify every three years. This replaces the current annual requirement. It means fewer trips and less paperwork.
- Fair Medical Deduction: States could offer a standard $155 medical deduction. This stops seniors from collecting piles of receipts. It simplifies proving their expenses.
- Easier Income Verification: The bill allows states to use existing data. Information from other programs can verify income. This speeds up the delivery of benefits.
A Bipartisan Push for Change
This legislation shows bipartisan cooperation. Rep. Josh Riley is a Democrat from New York’s 19th district. Rep. Mike Lawler is a Republican from New York’s 17th district. Both representatives worked together on this bill. Their joint effort highlights the wide support for helping seniors. It focuses on practical solutions over politics. This partnership aims to deliver real results for communities.
Riley’s Continued Focus on Seniors
This bill is part of a larger effort by Rep. Riley. He has a strong record of supporting seniors. Riley introduced the Social Security Access Act. He also co-sponsored the You Earned It, You Keep It Act. These bills protect Social Security access and cut taxes on benefits. Riley’s office has held over 40 mobile office events. These events help people access federal programs like Medicare and Social Security.
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