USDA announced new funding to improve SNAP employment and training (E&T) programs. The programs are designed to help SNAP recipients receive skills training to improve their ability to compete for a job, and eventually transition off of food assistance.

"Forty-two percent of SNAP participants live in households where at least one person is working. This is a historic high, and clearly demonstrates that SNAP recipients want to work," says Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "The additional grant support USDA is providing to state employment and training programs, along with new tools in the 2014 Farm Bill, will help SNAP recipients build comprehensive skill sets and match them with the good paying jobs they need to be able to move off the program."

In addition, the new farm bill will provide funding for 10 3-year pilot programs designed to help workers find gainful employment, increased earned income, and reduced reliance on public assistance.