New GOP Bill Threatens $200 SNAP Benefits: Over 3 Million Could Lose Assistance

A new Republican-backed bill is making headlines for all the wrong reasons—especially for low-income families who rely on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. The proposal could cut off food assistance for more than 3 million people, putting $200 or more in monthly SNAP benefits at risk for each household affected.

Let’s break down what’s going on, who will be impacted, and why this is such a big deal.

What Is SNAP and Why Is It Important?

SNAP is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families buy food. It’s commonly known as food stamps. The program is run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and provides a monthly allowance that can be used at grocery stores and supermarkets.

Millions of Americans depend on this support. For many, it means the difference between a full plate and going hungry.

What’s in the New GOP Bill?

The new bill, introduced by House Republicans, aims to tighten work requirements for SNAP recipients. The proposal would require more adults—especially those without children—to prove that they’re either working or enrolled in a training program to keep receiving benefits.

Currently, adults aged 18 to 49 without dependents must work or participate in a job training program for at least 20 hours a week to receive SNAP. This bill would raise the age limit to 65 and potentially add new paperwork and verification rules.

The goal, according to supporters of the bill, is to push more people into the workforce and reduce government spending. But critics say it will do more harm than good.

How Many People Could Lose Benefits?

According to estimates from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP), more than 3.2 million people could be at risk of losing SNAP benefits under the new bill.

Most of those affected are older adults, people with physical or mental health challenges, and individuals living in rural areas where jobs and transportation options are limited.

Who Will Be Hit the Hardest?

The impact won’t be equal. Certain groups are expected to suffer more than others:

• Older adults (50–65 years old): Many in this age group have health problems or limited job prospects.
• Rural residents: Fewer job opportunities and less access to job training or transportation.
• People with disabilities: Many may not be officially classified as disabled but still face major work limitations.
• Low-wage workers: Those working unstable or part-time jobs may not meet the strict requirements.

What Are Experts Saying?

Many anti-hunger groups and economists are speaking out against the bill. They argue that stricter rules won’t help people find jobs—but will instead increase food insecurity.

According to a policy brief from the Urban Institute, past efforts to expand work requirements didn’t result in significant employment gains but did lead to sharp drops in SNAP participation.

“Work requirements sound good in theory,” one analyst said, “but in reality, they often hurt the people who need help the most.”

What Happens Next?

The bill is still in the early stages and must pass through various committees before going to a full House vote. Even if it passes the House, it could face strong opposition in the Senate, especially from Democrats who have called it “cruel and unnecessary.”

President Biden has also signaled that he would oppose any measure that increases hunger or punishes the poor.

Still, the threat is real, and millions of families are anxiously waiting to see what happens.

What You Can Do

If you or someone you know relies on SNAP benefits, now’s the time to:

• Stay informed about your state’s eligibility requirements
• Keep documentation of your income and work hours updated
• Reach out to local assistance programs for help
• Contact your representatives to share your concerns

Final Thoughts

At a time when grocery prices are still high and many Americans are struggling to make ends meet, cutting food aid seems like the worst possible move. The new GOP bill may aim to reduce spending, but it could leave millions without the support they need to survive.