Significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are set to reshape how food assistance works in the United States. The reforms, passed under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, represent “one of the most substantial overhauls of SNAP in decades,” shifting policy toward stricter eligibility, expanded work requirements, and tighter spending controls. SNAP, which supports millions of low-income households, could see major changes in who qualifies and how benefits are calculated.
According to the Congressional Budget Office, the new rules could affect “about 2.4 million individuals each month.” A central change is the expansion of work requirements: able-bodied adults ages 18 to 64 must generally work at least 80 hours per month to keep benefits beyond a short period. Supporters say this promotes self-sufficiency, while critics warn that barriers like caregiving duties, health issues, or limited job access could lead to sudden benefit losses.
The reforms also narrow exemptions. While protections remain for people with disabilities, pregnant women, and parents of young children, groups such as veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and young adults leaving foster care are no longer automatically exempt. States may request waivers in high-unemployment areas, but the process can be complex and uneven.
Immigration rules are tightening as well. SNAP eligibility is now limited to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, meaning “roughly 90,000 individuals per month could lose eligibility.” Critics argue this could harm families and communities, while supporters say it prioritizes limited resources.
Finally, benefit levels may stagnate as updates to the Thrifty Food Plan are paused until 2027. While intended to control costs, critics fear this could worsen food insecurity as grocery prices rise.
