Impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill on SNAP Benefits

The recent passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) has initiated significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to millions of Americans. Following the end of a 43-day government shutdown, states are now implementing new restrictions that could result in the loss of benefits for many participants. The OBBA is projected to cut federal spending on SNAP by an estimated $186 billion over the next decade, tightening eligibility and imposing stricter work requirements.

The Hill

Under the OBBA, able-bodied adults without dependents must now prove they are working at least 80 hours a month, pursuing education, or participating in a training program to maintain their SNAP benefits. Previously, exemptions applied to adults up to age 54; this has now been extended to those under 65. Additionally, parents with children aged 14 and older will no longer be exempt from these work requirements. The law also restricts SNAP eligibility for many legal immigrants, including refugees and asylum seekers, effectively cutting off benefits for approximately 250,000 individuals.

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The changes are expected to disproportionately affect low-income families, particularly those already struggling with rising living costs. Dottie Rosenbaum, director of federal SNAP policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, noted that the OBBA represents the largest cut to SNAP in history, which will be "deeply felt" by many families. Organizations like HIAS and Homes Not Borders are ramping up emergency food assistance to help mitigate the impact on refugees and other vulnerable groups.

Politico

Critics argue that the new work requirements are excessively punitive and could exacerbate food insecurity. Naomi Steinberg of HIAS described the changes as "spectacularly cruel," particularly for those who need temporary assistance to regain stability. Economists, including Craig Gunderson from Baylor University, have labeled the work requirements as misguided, emphasizing that many individuals facing unemployment may be dealing with unaddressed issues such as mental health challenges.

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued guidance for states to comply with the new regulations, but confusion remains as states navigate the changes. California's Department of Social Services has indicated that they are still working to interpret the new rules and ensure accurate implementation. The deadline for full compliance was set for November 1, 2025, but many states are struggling to meet this timeline.

Sacramento Bee

As SNAP benefits are reduced, reliance on food banks is expected to increase. Feeding America reported a significant rise in food purchases by food banks, indicating heightened demand for assistance. The average SNAP benefit is approximately $190 per person per month, but those cut off could lose up to $300 monthly, further straining household budgets. The Legislative Analyst's Office in California estimates that nearly 610,000 residents could be affected by the new work requirements, with many potentially losing access to essential food assistance.

Sacramento Bee

• “While we are concerned about any person in this country going hungry needlessly, there is something spectacularly cruel about ripping out the safety net of people who came to this country who need just a little bit of time to get back on their feet and to begin to be able to contribute economically to this country,” — Naomi Steinberg, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at HIAS

Politico

• “This is just like what’s to come. This is bad, but [OBBA is] permanent.” — Matt Jozwiak, Rethink Food

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• “SNAP recipients are between 20% and 30% less likely to be food-insecure than eligible non-participants,” — Craig Gunderson, SNAP Researcher at Baylor University

Sacramento Bee

The implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill has initiated a transformative shift in SNAP, with significant implications for food security among low-income families and vulnerable populations. As states grapple with the new regulations, the potential for increased food insecurity looms, prompting urgent calls for support from food banks and community organizations.

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