Oregon is making big changes to its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These changes come from a federal budget law signed by former President Donald Trump in July. This new law not only cuts certain benefits but also adds stricter requirements for recipients.
Starting this week, many Oregonians will feel the impact. In six counties—Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Yamhill, Benton, and Hood River—able-bodied adults without dependents must now prove they work or volunteer for at least 80 hours each month. If they fail to do so, they can only receive SNAP benefits for three months over a three-year period.
It’s estimated that over 313,000 Oregonians, out of 757,000 SNAP recipients, will be affected by these changes. Governor Tina Kotek has voiced her strong opposition, saying her priority is to ensure every Oregonians knows how to get help. Food insecurity is a real worry as many local food banks already struggle with shortages.
Experts in social services warn that these new rules may hurt vulnerable populations, such as families with children, older adults, and those living with disabilities. Data from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities shows that most SNAP recipients are in households with children, with many relying on these benefits for basic needs.
In addition to work requirements, the new law cuts utility assistance for many households. Only those with members over 60 and with disabilities will get this help, potentially affecting about 29,000 households who could see their benefits drop by an average of $58 a month.
Perhaps one of the most impactful changes is the removal of SNAP eligibility for refugees and asylum seekers. An estimated 3,000 people could lose their benefits as a result. Experts argue this undermines the program’s goal of providing food security and could disproportionately affect mixed-status families.
Public reactions have been heated on social media, with many expressing concern over the increased hunger these changes may cause. Recent statistics indicate that food pantries are already experiencing shortages. For instance, the Oregon Food Bank reported that shipments from the U.S. Department of Agriculture had been canceled, leading to a deficit of over 1.4 million pounds of food.
While changes to SNAP are creating fear and uncertainty, organizations like the Oregon Food Bank are committed to helping as many families as possible. They are working hard to fill the gaps left by aid cuts, but the road ahead looks challenging.
As Oregon navigates these changes, many hope that support systems will adapt. Understanding the evolving landscape of food assistance will be crucial for Oregonians facing these tough times.
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