From NAP to SNAP: A Bridge to Economic Liberty for Residents of Puerto Rico (An Update)

Abstract

This paper updates and modifies "From NAP to SNAP: A Bridge to Economic Liberty for Residents of Puerto Rico." As the original document, this paper explains the origin, characteristics, and operation of the United States federal government’s block grant currently received by Puerto Rico to operate a nutrition assistance program. We compare its limitations with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit system. We analyze the possible change from the block grant to SNAP, and the potential of this program to enable more people to work and provide for themselves and their families. The effect on the economic activity of the federal funds allocated for the reconstruction and construction of infrastructure on the Island is considered. Finally, we discuss how SNAP incentives could create favorable conditions for the labor force participation rate to rise and what this means for the economic liberty of the people of Puerto Rico.