Major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are set to reshape food assistance nationwide under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The reforms mark one of the most significant overhauls of the program in decades, cutting federal funding and tightening eligibility rules.
A key change expands work requirements, generally mandating that adults ages 18 to 64 work at least 80 hours per month to keep benefits beyond a short period. While exemptions remain for people with disabilities and parents of young children, protections for veterans, homeless individuals, and young adults leaving foster care have been removed. The Congressional Budget Office estimates about 2.4 million people per month could be affected once the rules are fully in place.
The law also restricts SNAP access for immigrants, limiting eligibility to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Previously eligible non-citizens with humanitarian or temporary protections will lose access, impacting an estimated 90,000 people monthly. Additionally, updates to the Thrifty Food Plan—which determines benefit amounts—are paused until 2027 to control costs.
Supporters argue the changes promote accountability and self-sufficiency, while critics warn they risk deepening food insecurity for vulnerable families. As states begin implementing the reforms, advocates and policymakers are watching closely to see whether the program’s new structure reduces dependence—or leaves more Americans struggling to eat.