SNAP Update – Major Food Benefit Changes Expected Under the Trump Administration

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Donald Trump

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, is at the center of major proposed reforms following Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election.

SNAP provides critical food assistance to millions of low-income Americans, but Republican lawmakers are pushing for changes aimed at reducing costs and tightening eligibility requirements.

While SNAP serves as a lifeline for many, the program’s cost has drawn criticism from Republicans, who argue that spending has grown too high. In fiscal year 2022, SNAP expenditures totaled $119.4 billion, with $113.9 billion allocated for direct benefits.

Now, the GOP is looking to roll back expansions made under the Biden administration. But what exactly could change under Trump?

Budget

One of the primary focuses of Republican lawmakers is to reduce the overall cost of SNAP. They aim to achieve this by adjusting the Thrifty Food Plan (TFP), a formula used to determine benefit amounts.

In 2021, President Biden expanded the TFP, leading to a 23% increase in SNAP benefits. Republicans argue that this expansion was implemented without congressional approval and violated the 1996 Congressional Review Act. If reversed, SNAP recipients could see a reduction in their monthly benefits, weakening their purchasing power over time.

Eligibility

Another major change involves stricter eligibility requirements. Currently, states use broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE) to allow individuals receiving other government aid, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), to automatically qualify for SNAP.

However, Republicans want to eliminate BBCE, arguing that it allows higher-income households to access SNAP benefits without meeting federal income and asset limits.

Additionally, the GOP is pushing for a cap on the maximum household benefit. Under current rules, SNAP benefits are based on household size.

The proposed changes would limit benefits to a maximum of six household members, meaning families with more than six people would not receive additional aid beyond the capped amount of $1,390 per month.

Work Requirements

Work requirements for SNAP recipients are also under scrutiny. Presently, able-bodied adults aged 18 to 54 must work at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits beyond three months in a three-year period.

Republican lawmakers want to raise the age limit to 56, which would impact older recipients who may struggle to find stable employment.

Legislative Process

While these proposed changes could significantly impact millions of Americans, they must first pass through Congress. Given the likely resistance from Democratic lawmakers, the future of these reforms remains uncertain.

Any modifications to SNAP will require bipartisan negotiations, making it unclear whether Trump’s administration will succeed in implementing these cuts.

Ultimately, the fate of SNAP will depend on the political landscape in Congress. If these changes are approved, many recipients may face reduced benefits and stricter eligibility rules.

However, opposition from Democrats and advocacy groups could lead to compromises or block some of the proposed reforms altogether.

FAQs

Will SNAP benefits decrease under Trump?

If Republicans reverse Biden’s Thrifty Food Plan expansion, benefits may drop.

What is broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE)?

BBCE allows states to offer SNAP to certain TANF recipients automatically.

How will work requirements change?

The GOP proposes raising the work requirement age from 54 to 56.

Will large families lose benefits?

Republicans want to cap benefits at six household members, limiting aid.

Do these changes require congressional approval?

Yes, Congress must approve any changes, and Democrats may oppose them.

Swachhata Hi Seva

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