Proposed SNAP rule could cut food aid for over 6 million people, critics warn

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has proposed a rule change that would tighten eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), potentially cutting off more than 6 million people from federal food aid, CBS MoneyWatch reported.

The proposal would alter a policy extending SNAP eligibility to people receiving benefits from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The Agriculture Department estimates the change could reduce public enrollment in SNAP by about 17%.

White House spokeswoman Allison Schuster stated the administration aims to ensure SNAP serves only eligible Americans who need it most and emphasized efforts to stop fraud and reduce costs. Critics, however, argue that the change would increase food insecurity amid financial struggles for many Americans.

Ty Jones Cox of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities called the proposal an attack on vital food assistance, while Rep. Angie Craig described it as "heartless and cruel." Advocates also note this proposal is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to narrow SNAP eligibility, including expanded work requirements and increased state costs for administering the program.