A new tax and spending bill recently passed by House Republicans could have major consequences for low-income Americans who rely on government assistance, particularly through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). According to a Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report, the legislation could strip food aid from 3.2 million people and shift nearly $14 billion per year in costs to state governments beginning in 2028. While supporters claim the bill promotes accountability and efficiency, critics warn it could deepen poverty and increase food insecurity across the country.
What’s in the New House Bill?
Passed by a razor-thin margin (215–214), the House bill seeks to reduce federal spending while expanding tax benefits for higher-income households. A major part of the savings would come from tightening SNAP eligibility and offloading some of its financial responsibility onto states.
Key proposed changes include:
- Stricter work requirements for SNAP eligibility
- Elimination of state waivers that allow exceptions for certain individuals
- Cost-sharing mandates requiring states to fund between 5% and 25% of SNAP benefits beginning in 2028
These adjustments are positioned by supporters as a way to “streamline” government aid and focus help on those who need it most.
Who Will Lose Benefits?
If the bill becomes law, the CBO estimates the following:
| Group Affected | Estimated Number Losing Benefits |
|---|---|
| Total individuals | 3.2 million per month |
| Due to end of state waivers | 1.4 million |
| Parents with children aged 7+ | 800,000 |
The loss would disproportionately affect non-working adults, working-poor parents, and individuals who don’t meet the stricter work criteria—even if they’re actively seeking employment or struggling with caregiving responsibilities.
Financial Burden on States
Currently, the federal government pays 100% of SNAP benefits. This bill would change that starting in 2028, requiring states to shoulder a share of the cost. States would pay:
- 5% to 25% of SNAP benefits, depending on their administrative “error rates”
- A collective $98 billion over six years, or roughly $14 billion per year
This shift could put intense financial pressure on states—especially those with limited budgets. Some states may:
- Reduce benefits
- Narrow eligibility
- Or even exit the SNAP program entirely, although Republicans insist that’s unlikely
Republican Justification
GOP lawmakers claim the changes are about accountability and targeting assistance more effectively. They argue:
- Work-capable adults should be motivated to find employment
- Cost-sharing ensures states are more invested in reducing fraud and errors
- The program will become more fiscally sustainable
Ben Nichols, spokesman for the House Agriculture Committee, defended the bill as “common-sense reform” to modernize SNAP and ensure it’s reaching the right people.
Strong Democratic Opposition
Democrats have responded with strong criticism, calling the bill an attack on low-income families:
- Rep. Angie Craig accused Republicans of putting “children’s nutrition on the chopping block.”
- Sen. Amy Klobuchar warned the plan would worsen food insecurity in an already tough economic environment, with food prices still elevated.
Critics argue that the bill effectively funds tax breaks for the wealthy at the expense of poor families, seniors, and working parents.
What’s Next in the Senate?
The bill now moves to the U.S. Senate, where it will likely face additional scrutiny. Republicans are pushing to pass the measure using budget reconciliation, a process that avoids the usual 60-vote threshold and allows passage with a simple majority.
While Senate Republicans are working on their own version of the bill, details remain unclear. Democrats are expected to fight hard against any SNAP cuts, setting the stage for a contentious policy battle in the coming weeks.
FAQs
When would these changes to SNAP take effect?
Most provisions, especially cost-sharing for states, would begin in 2028, although some changes to eligibility and work requirements could start earlier.
What are the work requirements?
The bill would eliminate flexibility for states to waive work rules, potentially cutting off benefits for people who don’t meet stricter employment criteria.