Greensboro's African American Community Newspaper since 1967
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a bold move to combat what she describes as “punitive” barriers to food security, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams (NC-12) has introduced H.R. 7522: The Improving Access to Nutrition Act of 2026.
The legislation, introduced on Feb. 12, aims to repeal the strict work requirements within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that currently disqualify millions of “able-bodied” adults if they cannot prove 80 hours of work or training per month.
For Rep. Adams, a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, the bill is a direct response to recent federal budget shifts and administrative hurdles that have threatened the benefits of over 1.4 million North Carolinians.
“Hunger is on the rise across the country while Republicans have made the largest cuts to SNAP in history,” Adams said in a statement. “The Improving Access to Nutrition Act puts people over politics and ensures that we keep all families healthy and fed.”
Under current rules, many adults without dependents are limited to just three months of food assistance every three years unless they meet rigid work mandates. Adams’ bill would eliminate these “time limits,” which she argues do more to create paperwork than to create jobs.
The bill’s supporters highlight a sobering reality: work requirements do not hit all communities equally. National data shows that Black Americans and those experiencing homelessness are disproportionately screened out of the program due to these mandates.
Proponents of the bill point out that many labeled “able-bodied” actually struggle with undocumented health issues, housing instability, or a lack of reliable transportation—barriers that make traditional 9-to-5 employment nearly impossible.
Economic Equity: In North Carolina, nearly half of the infants born in the state participate in WIC, and over 600,000 children rely on SNAP. Adams argues that by removing work obstacles for adults, the entire family unit becomes more stable.
Beyond the moral imperative, Adams is leaning on the economic “multiplier effect” of SNAP.
For every $1.00 spent in SNAP benefits, between $1.50 and $1.80 is generated in local economic activity.
In 2024 alone, nearly $3 billion in SNAP benefits were redeemed at North Carolina retailers and farmers’ markets, providing a vital revenue stream for local businesses and rural farmers.
The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Agriculture. If passed, the changes would take effect 180 days after becoming law. The legislation is co-sponsored by several members of the Congressional Black Caucus, including Reps. Jahana Hayes (CT), Summer Lee (PA), and Lateefah Simon (CA), signaling a unified front against what they call the “criminalization of poverty.”
“Hungry people should not be punished because they lose their job or their hours get cut,” said Rep. Hayes. “This act is a step in making sure no person, doing the best they can, goes hungry.”
For readers of the Carolina Peacemaker looking for more information or local support, here are the key advocacy and food security organizations in Greensboro and Charlotte that partner with the Adams Hunger Initiative:
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Area
The Adams Hunger Initiative (AHI). A coalition of more than 20 regional leaders in nutrition and farming established by Congresswoman Adams in 2015. They work directly on the legislation mentioned in this story and coordinate local food resources. Website: adams.house.gov/issues/hunger. Congressional Office (NC-12): (704) 344-9950.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. The primary distribution hub for Charlotte and surrounding counties, serving as a critical partner in the AHI’s mission to protect SNAP benefits. Address: 500-B Spratt St., Charlotte, N.C. 28206. Phone: (704) 376-1785.
Website: secondharvestmetrolina.org.
Nourish Up (Formerly Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays). Provides a network of food pantries across Mecklenburg County and offers grocery delivery for those with mobility issues. Phone (Assistance Line): (704) 523-4333. Website: nourishup.org
Greensboro & Guilford County
Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC. Serves 18 counties including Guilford. They lead regional advocacy efforts to educate the public on the “upstream” causes of hunger and the impact of federal work requirements. Main Office: 3330 Shorefair Drive, Winston-Salem, N.C. 27105. (Serves Greensboro). Phone: (336) 784-5770. Website: secondharvestnwnc.org.
Greensboro Urban Ministry A major local provider offering a food pantry, emergency assistance, and specialized support for individuals experiencing homelessness who are impacted by SNAP eligibility changes. Address: 305 W. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro, N.C. 27406. Phone: (336) 271-5959.Website: greensborourbanministry.org
Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina. An active advocacy partner that works to ensure SNAP benefits remain available to the 1.4 million North Carolinians who rely on them. Website: foodbankcenc.org/advocate
Need Immediate Help?
If you or someone you know is facing a food crisis, you can also dial 2-1-1 (the NC United Way resource line) to be connected with the nearest open food pantry or to receive help applying for SNAP/FNS benefits.
