© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Why SNAP benefits aren’t keeping up with rising food costs

Season 2024 Episode 148 | 6m 43s

The five-year farm bill is working its way through Congress, and one major sticking point this year is funding for the federal program that helps low-income people buy food. An analysis by the Urban Institute found that SNAP benefits in 2023 did not cover the rising cost of groceries in 98 percent of U.S. counties. Ali Rogin speaks with Urban Institute senior fellow Elaine Waxman to learn more.

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
Extras
'It's the whole system': Survivors of alleged abuse by Army doctor demand accountability
How Denmark views Trump's threats to take over Greenland
Iran protesters face ruthless crackdown as Trump says help 'on its way'
A look at the legal and political fight over trans athletes as cases reach Supreme Court
DOJ prosecutors resign in protest over handling of ICE shooting investigation
News Wrap: Inflation mostly steady in December as prices rose 2.7% over previous year
January 13, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
January 12, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
Iran protests escalate as regime crackdown leaves more than 500 dead
Trump administration's posts echo rhetoric linked to extremist groups