SNAP work requirements: This is Trump’s bill that increases conditions for food stamps

The U.S. House Agriculture Committee on Monday introduced a proposal that seeks to significantly overhaul the food stamp program, including greater work requirements and a new cost-sharing policy between the federal government and states.

The measure is part of the so-called “One Big, Beautiful Bill”, ambitious legislation backed by President Donald Trump and designed to cut $230 billion in public spending. The plan, according to Republican leaders, seeks to restore the original purpose of the SNAP program as a temporary aid, not as a permanent solution.

One of the most notable changes proposed is to increase the monthly work requirement to 80 hours for adults without disabilities or dependent children, raising the maximum age from 54 to 64. In addition, the child-related criterion is changed: currently those with dependents under 18 are exempt from the requirement, but the new legislation would reduce that limit to children up to 7 years old.

These modifications, according to supporters of the plan such as the chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, Glenn “GT” Thompson, seek to reduce fraud, increase efficiency and protect public funds. “For too long, SNAP has drifted into a permanent destination with little accountability. This legislation refocuses on work and the effective use of resources,” Thompson said in a statement.

Trump’s proposal has opponents

But not everyone agrees. Anti-hunger organizations and Democratic leaders have harshly criticized the proposal, warning that millions of people could lose access to basic food. Ty Jones Cox, vice president of the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, said the plan “would take food away from millions of seniors and parents who struggle to find steady work or get caught up in red tape.”

Another significant change would be the introduction, for the first time, of a state co-financing system to cover part of the cost of SNAP benefits. Beginning in 2028, all states would have to bear at least 5% of the cost of benefits, with increases for those with higher error rates in the distribution of funds. In addition, the proportion that the federal government allocates to cover states’ administrative costs would be reduced from 50% to 25%.

Democratic governors from 23 states have already spoken out against the plan, claiming it represents a disguised cut in benefits. “The idea that states will make up for massive cuts to federal funding is simply inaccurate and impossible,” they said in a joint statement through the Democratic Governors Association.

The plan is part of the budget reconciliation process, which allows Republicans to pass tax legislation without Democratic support, as long as it addresses budgetary issues. This mechanism requires only a simple majority in both houses, giving the Republican Party the opportunity to advance Trump’s agenda without having to negotiate with the opposition.

All the committees responsible for the different sections of the project are expected to complete their work before Memorial Day, when the House plans to introduce the final legislative package. If it succeeds, this project could radically transform the way millions of Americans access food assistance.