Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada is concerned about efforts to restrict SNAP food choices for Nevada families. These proposed limitations, introduced without a public process, fail to address the real and urgent causes of hunger in our state.

The ELCA’s 1999 Social Statement Sufficient, Sustainable Livelihood for All teaches that “food is a fundamental human right” and that society has a moral obligation to ensure that “all people are fed and protected from hunger.” It further calls on public leaders to create policies that “enhance human dignity rather than punish people for their poverty.”

Restricting how low-income families use their already, limited SNAP benefits does not protect health, it stigmatizes hunger. At a time when grocery costs continue to rise and many communities across Nevada lack access to fresh, affordable food, such restrictions do nothing to increase nutrition, dignity, or choice.

The ELCA reminds us that hunger is not caused by personal failure but by “a web of policies, structures, and circumstances.” Any meaningful response must address the systemic barriers that prevent families from thriving, barriers like food deserts, low wages, and rising housing and utility costs.

As people of faith grounded in Jesus’ command to feed the hungry, we call on Nevada to pursue policies that:

• Expand access to healthy and affordable food
• Invest in grocery infrastructure in rural and underserved communities
• Engage the public transparently, including those most impacted
• Protect choice and dignity for families relying on SNAP

Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada will continue to advocate alongside our congregations, neighbors, and community partners for a Nevada where every person, especially those living on the margins, has food on the table and agency in their lives.