An infographic report on policy proposals, their justifications, and their potential impacts on recipients.
Average number of Americans receiving SNAP benefits per month (FY 2024).
Economic activity generated for every $1 of SNAP benefits issued (USDA ERS data).
Total program cost for food benefits in FY 2024, reflecting post-pandemic adjustments.
The first term saw three major administrative rule changes proposed to alter SNAP eligibility and benefit amounts. Each was met with specific claims and strong rebuttals.
"Promote work and self-sufficiency" by limiting states' ability to waive work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents.
Analysts projected this would remove benefits from nearly 700,000 of the nation's poorest individuals, increasing food insecurity.
"Close a loophole" and "ensure program integrity" by removing Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, which allows states to enroll families with assets.
This would cause 3.1 million people to lose benefits, including households with children who would also lose free school meals.
"Standardize" the formula for calculating utility costs to "achieve cost savings" and "ensure fairness" across states.
This recalculation was projected to result in a net benefit cut for millions, particularly affecting seniors and people in states with high heating costs.
This chart visualizes the distinct populations projected to be impacted by each of the three major rule change proposals.
Analysts projected that benefit loss would lead to a cascade of negative social and economic outcomes.
Actions in 2025 have centered on legislative proposals and court challenges, culminating in significant benefit disruptions during the fall government shutdown.
USDA appropriation lapses. The agency announces that October benefits are secure but November benefits are not funded.
Advocacy groups file an emergency lawsuit seeking to compel the release of November benefits, citing harm to recipients.
The administration formally objects to using USDA contingency funds for SNAP, stating funds are reserved for other priorities.
No full SNAP benefits are issued. States begin using limited remaining funds to issue partial or emergency benefits, causing confusion.
A legislative proposal to fund SNAP exclusively is blocked, tied to broader negotiations over the shutdown's conclusion.
Throughout 2025, several other actions have been pursued to limit SNAP access and payment:
A majority of SNAP benefits go to households that include children, seniors, or people with disabilities.
This chart shows the fluctuation in program cost and participation, influenced by the pandemic, inflation, and policy changes.