Sweeping changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are set to take effect this November, marking one of the largest overhauls to the nation’s food assistance system in decades.
The reforms, part of the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act, will reduce federal SNAP funding and introduce stricter eligibility rules.
According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the changes could affect about 2.4 million Americans per month once fully implemented. One of the biggest updates involves expanded work requirements.
Adults between the ages of 18 and 64 will now need to work at least 80 hours per month to maintain benefits beyond three months in a three-year period.
Some exemptions remain for individuals with disabilities or parents caring for young children, but others — including those for veterans, homeless individuals, and young adults from foster care — have been removed. States may still request waivers if local unemployment rates are high. The law also tightens immigration eligibility, restricting SNAP benefits to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Previously, certain non-citizens, including individuals with humanitarian status, could qualify.
This change is expected to impact roughly 90,000 people per month, according to CBO estimates. Meanwhile, updates to the Thrifty Food Plan — which determines benefit amounts — will be frozen until 2027 to limit cost increases. Supporters say the reforms promote accountability and reduce fraud, while critics warn they could increase food insecurity among low-income families. State agencies are now preparing to roll out the new rules before the November deadline.
