New Legislative Changes to SNAP: How Shifting Costs to States Affects Food Assistance for Millions

On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed a law that will significantly cut support for programs meant to help low-income families. One major change affects the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. By 2034, SNAP funding is expected to drop by approximately $186 billion, affecting around 42 million people who rely on this assistance to buy groceries.

This shift marks a departure from the program’s original intent, which was to provide broad support for those in need. Historically, SNAP was designed to ensure that low-income individuals could access adequate food, regardless of their circumstances.

Research from the Congressional Budget Office estimates that about 3 million people may lose their benefits due to stricter work requirements. Many will now face time limits, making it easier to lose support—especially for those who struggle with paperwork or documentation.

States will also bear a larger financial burden, covering more of the program’s costs. In 2024, state expenses exceeded $100 billion. This change may push states to tighten eligibility criteria, limiting access further due to their own financial pressures.

Key Historical Insights

SNAP traces its roots back to the 1960s, born out of a need to address widespread hunger, particularly when John F. Kennedy highlighted the plight of coal miners in Appalachia during his presidential campaign. Unlike other safety net programs, it was meant for all low-income families, not just those with children or disabilities. By 1974, the program was accessible nationwide, recognizing the diverse needs across different communities.

Historically, the federal government funded all benefits, encouraging states to enroll as many eligible families as possible without worrying about costs. This approach allowed SNAP to adapt automatically during tough economic times, providing essential support for families and local economies.

Increased Restrictions on Benefits

Requirements for able-bodied adults seeking SNAP benefits have been incrementally tightened since the early 1970s. Recent legislative changes will expand work requirements to include adults up to age 64, including parents of older children. States had previously been able to waive these requirements in areas with high unemployment, but this flexibility will now be significantly reduced.

Some groups are exempt, such as Native Americans and veterans, recognizing their unique challenges in obtaining employment. However, this law will make it more difficult for certain immigrants to qualify for assistance, further limiting support to vulnerable populations.

The Impact of Error Rates

Mismanagement and “error rates” within SNAP, which indicate how accurately states determine eligibility and benefit amounts, have long been a concern. Critics argue these errors arise from complicated processes that can overwhelm applicants and caseworkers alike. As a result, states have been pressured to impose stricter requirements, inadvertently making it harder for low-wage workers—whose incomes can fluctuate—to access benefits.

Since the pandemic, SNAP’s error rates have spiked, reaching an alarming average of 11.7% in 2023. States facing high error rates have been mandated to develop corrective plans, but these efforts often translate into more bureaucratic hurdles for applicants.

Financial Accountability for States

The new law will also shift more costs to the states, which will begin paying a portion of benefit costs based on their error rates. This change aims to foster better administration but could also incentivize states to restrict benefits further to alleviate their budget pressures.

Despite arguments that these reforms will enhance accountability, critics worry they may lead to more significant gaps in assistance for those who already struggle to afford nutritious food.

As these legislative changes roll out, many low-income families may find it increasingly difficult to access essential support, leaving them without adequate resources to feed their families.

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