UPDATE: Urgent budget cuts to the SNAP program could plunge millions of families into food insecurity. As the government shutdown delays crucial payments, new reports reveal that SNAP cuts totaling $186 billion over the next decade are already jeopardizing the food security of vulnerable households.
The recent One Big Beautiful Bill Act has slashed spending by $1.1 trillion and introduced significant changes to SNAP, which provides food assistance to families living at or below 130% of the poverty line—just $34,645 a year for a family of three. Currently, 42 million people rely on SNAP, receiving an average of $400 per month. Among these, 34% are children and teens.
The newly imposed requirements demand states contribute a share of SNAP costs for the first time, potentially leading to widespread hunger. Starting in 2027, states with error rates above 6% could be forced to contribute between 5% to 15% of benefits paid to recipients.
“States are not exactly rolling in funds, so they can make their systems more efficient and cut error rates,”
said Bitler from the UC Davis Center for Poverty and Inequality Research. This shift may lead states to tighten eligibility checks, further reducing participation.
Research has consistently shown that SNAP reduces food insecurity and has long-term benefits for children, improving birth weights and educational outcomes. However, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the new work requirements could disqualify 2.4 million people from SNAP each month, with cuts affecting an additional 300,000 individuals monthly and 96,000 children losing nutrition subsidies.
These cuts not only impact families but also threaten local grocers who accept EBT payments. In 2024, SNAP benefits totaled $93.6 billion, directly supporting food retailers. Research indicates that SNAP boosts retail sales and job creation, with adoption increasing sales by up to 1.6% percentage points and payrolls by 4.2% at grocery stores.
As families brace for what could be devastating losses, the urgency for immediate action grows. Advocates and officials are calling for solutions to mitigate the impact of these cuts. With the government shutdown compounding the crisis, the future of food security hangs in the balance.
Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue as it develops.
