NGA Applauds Government Reopening, Highlights Independent Grocers’ Leadership During Shutdown 

Washington, D.C. – With our nation’s longest government shutdown now behind us, the National Grocers Association (NGA), the leading trade association representing independent community grocers and wholesale distributors, applauds Congress and the Trump Administration for coming together to reopen the government and restore stability for millions of Americans by funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through 2026.

Throughout the shutdown, independent community grocers stepped up to fill the void when SNAP benefits were disrupted. Across the country, local grocers kept their doors open, partnered with food banks, and even distributed store gift cards to ensure their neighbors could continue putting food on the table. Their professionalism, compassion, and commitment reflect the very best of America’s independent grocery industry and why these grocers truly are at the heart of their communities.

NGA also commends congressional leaders for advancing policies in this legislation that support independent community grocers. The bill includes a continuation of the prohibition on SNAP EBT transaction or processing fees on SNAP authorized retailers, as well as a key provision that requires the Food and Drug Administration to coordinate directly with industry leaders to ensure regulations are workable, systems are aligned, and employees are sufficiently trained.

These legislative outcomes reaffirm NGA’s role as an effective, results-driven advocate for independent grocers. Through strong partnerships, steady engagement, and a clear voice in Washington, NGA helped secure critical protections for retailers and consumers alike. NGA is especially grateful to the hundreds of NGA member companies who responded to our grassroots call to action by contacting their elected representatives and sharing personal testimonials.

As the leading voice for America’s Main Street grocers, NGA remains committed to building on this progress. We will continue working with policymakers and regulators to ensure that independent grocers remain strong, competitive, and ready to serve the communities that rely on them every day. 

About the National Grocers Association

NGA is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale community grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector is accountable for about 1.2 percent of the nation’s overall economy and is responsible for generating more than $250 billion in sales, 1.1 million jobs, $39 billion in wages and $36 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers located in every congressional district across the country, as well as state grocers’ associations, manufacturers and service suppliers. For more information about NGA, visit www.nationalgrocers.org.