Millions Would Lose SNAP Benefits With Farm Bill

As the Senate moves toward conference with the House of Representatives on the 2018 Farm Bill, the central policy issue the two chambers must resolve is whether to impose even more work requirements on those receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP; formerly the Food Stamp Program) benefits. New research shows that many beneficiaries would have difficulty meeting the requirements and would lose their benefits.

The House plan would impose mandatory work requirements on SNAP participants ages 18 through 59 who are neither disabled nor raising a child under age 6. This would entail proving every month that they are working or participating in a work program at least 20 hours per week or that they qualify for an exemption. Those who cannot comply would lose access to benefits for a period between 12 and 36 months.