Story perspectives

New SNAP Bill Tightens Eligibility, Expands Work Requirements

11/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

The One Big Beautiful Bill reshapes Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by restricting eligibility to U.S. citizens and select entrants.
Lawful permanent residents must wait five years for eligibility.
The law expands work requirements for able-bodied adults up to age 64 to 80 hours monthly.
States face penalties for SNAP error rates with a 6 percent threshold in fiscal year 2028.
These changes could affect thousands, particularly vulnerable populations.

History

Historical Context

The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) of 1996, signed by President Bill Clinton, replaced the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). This law imposed stricter eligibility requirements, including a five-year limit on benefits, significantly impacting 1.5 million children and shaping ongoing welfare policies, including recent changes to SNAP.

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Story summary

The One Big Beautiful Bill reshapes Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by restricting eligibility to U.S. citizens and select entrants.
Lawful permanent residents must wait five years for eligibility.
The law expands work requirements for able-bodied adults up to age 64 to 80 hours monthly.
States face penalties for SNAP error rates with a 6 percent threshold in fiscal year 2028.
These changes could affect thousands, particularly vulnerable populations.

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