Hands Off Medicaid and SNAP Act of 2025

Hands Off Medicaid and SNAP Act of 2025 would add a new procedural rule to the budget process: a point of order that blocks any reconciliation measure (or related joint resolutions, amendments, or conference reports) that would reduce Medicaid enrollment or benefits or reduce SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) eligibility or benefits. The ban applies to reconciliation bills reported under the budget process and to related actions under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act. The rule is temporary, expiring on January 20, 2029. The bill also makes a conforming amendment to ensure violations are treated as violations of the restraint set by section 310(h) and thus subject to the point of order. Introduced in the House by Rep. Boyle (and several co-sponsors), the measure aims to shield Medicaid and SNAP from budget-cutting moves pursued through reconciliation. In plain terms, the bill is a procedural shield for two major social programs: Medicaid and SNAP. If enacted, lawmakers would be barred from advancing budget bills through reconciliation that would cut who gets covered, how many are covered, or how much benefits are provided for these programs, for a limited period. The sunset means lawmakers would need to revisit or reauthorize the protection after January 2029, potentially influencing long-term budget strategy and political dynamics around these programs.