The U.S. Department of Agriculture is proposing a 2.3% increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for eligible Hawaii families, according to U.S. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii.

If approved, the increase would mean an extra $40 per month in benefits for a family of four.

“For many in Hawaii, SNAP is a lifeline, helping families put food on the table,” Schatz said. “But to make sure this program continues to help those who rely on it, SNAP benefits need to keep up with the real cost of food across the state. I thank the USDA and Secretary (Tom) Vilsack for working with us to update SNAP benefits for Hawaii so that those who need it can continue to access this critical federal program.”

The proposed change is part of USDA rulemaking process to adjust benefits for Hawaii and is intended to ensure benefits take into account food costs for residents across the state. USDA also released a report on the cost analysis for which the public may submit comments through Feb. 3, 2025.

A Delish analysis of U.S. census data found that Hawaii leads the nation in grocery prices at $334 per household per week.

SNAP is a federal program that provides crucial nutritional benefits to low-income individuals and families that are used at stores to purchase food. It’s administered at the federal level through USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and at the state level in Hawaii by the state Department of Human Services.

Nearly 200,000 Hawaii residents rely on SNAP.

Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.