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New rules for SNAP program coming
The USDA ordered California to implement new SNAP work requirements by early November, a move that could cut off food assistance for thousands and force the state to absorb billions in new costs.
LOS ANGELES - The USDA has issued a new deadline for states to enforce stricter work requirements for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
What we know:
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4, 2025, has introduced significant changes to the SNAP program.
The new law has expanded work requirements, which apply to most able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs).
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Previously, these individuals could only receive SNAP benefits for three months within a three-year period unless they met certain work requirements.
The OBBBA broadens the scope of who is subject to these requirements.
The age limit for ABAWDs has been raised to include individuals up to age 65, up from 59.
The exemption for parents or guardians has been limited to those caring for children under 14, a change from the previous age of 18.
Additionally, several long-standing exemptions have been eliminated for homeless individuals, veterans, and young adults who have aged out of foster care at age 24 or younger.
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Exemptions remain in place for individuals who are pregnant or have a physical or mental disability.
The bill also includes new exemptions for certain native populations.
The bill also makes it more difficult for states to apply for waivers to the work requirements, limiting waivers to areas with an unemployment rate of at least 10%.
The other side:
Proponents of the changes, including the Trump administration, argue that the new work requirements will reduce dependency on federal programs and save taxpayer money.
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However, critics of the legislation say the new rules will create additional barriers to accessing much-needed food assistance.
What's next:
The USDA, which oversees the SNAP program, sent a memo to all state agencies on October 3, ordering them to begin complying with the new work requirements by November 1.
The Source: This report is based on a memorandum from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sent to all state agencies. It outlines a new law, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which has changed the rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The information on the bill's provisions, including changes to exemptions for various groups, comes directly from the USDA memo.