Arizona cuts SNAP staff by 36%, creating backlog in applications for benefits

PHOENIX — The Arizona Department of Economic Security had to cut staffing this past summer due to federal funding cuts, and it is now creating a backlog of applications for SNAP benefits.

A spokesperson for the department said DES is currently processing an estimated 54,000 new and renewal applications, with 18,000 of those over 30 days old.

DES attributes the backlog to staff reductions “that were necessitated by a decrease in federal funding earlier this year.”

“Nevertheless, we are evaluating all available resources to tackle the current challenges and remain committed to providing recipients with their benefits as swiftly as possible, recognizing that these benefits can be critically important for families,” a statement read.

Read the full story from ABC15 Arizona here.

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