Trump's Budget Bill Proposes Stricter SNAP Work Requirements

House Republicans are advancing a bill that would impose stricter work requirements on SNAP recipients as part of President Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’.

In a move to cut government waste and find taxpayer savings, House Republicans are pushing forward with a bill that would significantly alter the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The proposed changes, part of President Donald Trump’s ambitious legislative agenda termed the ‘big, beautiful bill’, involve raising the age limit for work requirements from 54 to 64 for able-bodied adults without dependents. Additionally, the bill would extend these requirements to SNAP recipients with children over the age of 7.

The House Agriculture Committee, responsible for federal food programs, has been tasked with identifying $230 billion in spending cuts. Committee Chairman Glenn Thompson emphasized that the proposed changes aim to restore the original intent of SNAP as a temporary support rather than a permanent solution, enhancing accountability and encouraging work. The legislation would also shift some SNAP costs to the states, introducing a 5% baseline benefit cost share starting in 2028, with adjustments based on states’ error rates in payments.

This bill is part of a broader effort by House and Senate Republicans to advance Trump’s priorities through the budget reconciliation process, which allows for the passage of significant legislation with a simple majority, bypassing the need for bipartisan support. The comprehensive bill, which also addresses issues like border security, immigration, taxes, energy, defense, and the debt limit, is expected to be finalized by Memorial Day, according to House Speaker Mike Johnson.