United States federal food-assistance program
SNAP participation has declined by about 4.3 million from January 2025 to January 2026. Advocates attribute the drop to tougher eligibility rules and work requirements in the One Big Beautiful Bill, while supporters claim a stronger economy and reduced fraud are responsible. The administration is moving toward tighter controls and reduced federal funding over the next decade, with state programs bearing more cost.
The new SNAP cost-sharing rules require states with high payment error rates to cover a portion of benefit costs starting in October 2027. Several states face bill totals in the billions, raising the possibility that some may withdraw from the program. The Trump-era changes aim to curb waste, while critics warn of deeper harm to vulnerable families.