Donald Trump’s return to the White House comes with the promise of major policy shifts, including significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Commonly known as food stamps, SNAP provides essential support to millions of low-income Americans, but the new administration and Republican lawmakers are pushing for reforms aimed at reducing costs and tightening eligibility.
So, what exactly could change under Trump’s administration, and how might it impact those who rely on SNAP benefits? Let’s break it down.
Budget
SNAP is one of the largest anti-hunger programs in the U.S., serving over 42 million people in 2023. However, it also comes with a hefty price tag—$119.4 billion in fiscal year 2022. While $113.9 billion went directly to benefits, $5.5 billion covered administrative costs.
Republicans argue that the program has become too expensive and are looking for ways to cut spending. This means a potential rollback of benefit increases and stricter eligibility requirements.
Thrifty Food Plan
One of the major proposed changes involves the Thrifty Food Plan (TFP), which determines how much SNAP recipients receive each month. In 2021, the Biden administration expanded the TFP, leading to a 23% increase in benefits. Republicans claim this change bypassed congressional approval and want to reverse it.
If this rollback happens, SNAP recipients could see a decline in their monthly benefits, making it harder for families to afford nutritious food.
Eligibility
Another key proposal targets broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE). Currently, states use BBCE to allow more people to qualify for SNAP, particularly those receiving assistance from programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
The Republican budget calls for eliminating BBCE, arguing that it allows some households with higher incomes to access SNAP. If this change goes through, fewer people would qualify for food assistance, potentially leaving many families without support.
Household Limits
Right now, SNAP benefits are calculated based on the number of people in a household. However, Republicans want to cap the maximum benefit at a family size of six. Under current rules, a household of six receives a maximum of $1,390 per month. If this cap is implemented, larger families may struggle to make ends meet.
Work Requirements
Work requirements for SNAP recipients may also become stricter. At present, able-bodied adults aged 18 to 54 must work at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits for more than three months in a three-year period. The new proposal seeks to raise this age limit to 56, meaning more people would have to meet work requirements or risk losing benefits.
Will These Changes Happen?
While these proposed changes align with the Republican agenda, they won’t take effect immediately. Any modifications to SNAP must go through Congress, where they will likely face opposition from Democratic lawmakers. The final outcome will depend on legislative negotiations and political dynamics in the coming months.
For millions of Americans who rely on SNAP, these proposed reforms could have significant consequences. Whether the goal is cost-cutting or improving program efficiency, the debate over food assistance is far from over.
FAQs
Will SNAP benefits decrease under Trump?
If Republicans reverse Biden’s Thrifty Food Plan changes, benefits could decrease.
What is broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE)?
BBCE allows states to expand SNAP access based on other assistance programs.
Will work requirements for SNAP change?
Yes, the proposed plan raises the work requirement age from 54 to 56.
How will the household limit impact large families?
Families with more than six members may receive the same maximum benefit as a six-person household.
Are these SNAP changes final?
No, Congress must approve the proposals, and they will face opposition from Democrats.
