New work requirements for recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are taking effect in more states beginning February 1st, potentially putting millions of Americans at risk of losing food assistance.
The changes stem from a sweeping tax and spending law signed in July by President Donald Trump, which expanded existing work rules for certain adults. Under the new policy, able-bodied adults ages 18 to 64 without young dependents must work, volunteer or participate in job training for at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits beyond three months in a three-year period.
Previously, the requirements applied only to adults ages 18 to 54 without dependents. The law now extends them to adults up to age 64 and limits exemptions for parents, lowering the cutoff to those caring for children under 14. Exemptions were also removed for homeless individuals, veterans and young adults aging out of foster care.
According to the Congressional Budget Office, the changes are expected to reduce SNAP participation by about 2.4 million people per month over the next decade. Estimates suggest more than 2 million individuals could lose benefits, including both adults without dependents and parents of older children.
The rollout varies by state. Some states, including Texas, began enforcing the rules in October, while others such as Ohio and Illinois will start implementation this month. In states where the three-month clock began earlier, some recipients could lose benefits as soon as February. Other states retain temporary waivers tied to unemployment rates, though many are expiring.
SNAP currently serves about 42 million people nationwide, including low-income families, older adults and individuals with disabilities. The average benefit is approximately $190 per person per month.
