Major changes to the SNAP food assistance program will take effect starting in November, aiming to reduce costs and tighten eligibility. The reforms include expanding work requirements up to age 65, limiting exemptions (including for some vulnerable groups), and restricting eligibility mainly to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Funding will also be reduced by about $187 billion over 10 years, and millions could lose benefits. Updates to food cost calculations will prevent benefit increases, while states will bear more administrative costs and face penalties for errors.
Supporters say the changes improve accountability and reduce fraud, but critics warn they could increase food insecurity and harm vulnerable populations.