USDA Proposes Rule to Cut SNAP Benefits for 6.3 Million People
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a proposed rule that would eliminate automatic eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for households currently receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash aid. According to agency analysis, this change could result in approximately 6.3 million people—nearly 18% of current SNAP recipients—losing their food assistance benefits. The proposal comes amid a prolonged government shutdown and follows previous administration cuts that have already reduced enrollment by over 5.5 million people since July 2025. Beyond direct food stamps, the USDA estimates the rule would also disqualify 1.8 million children from receiving free school lunches. The administration maintains the move is intended to standardize eligibility and ensure benefits are preserved for those most in need.
Topics: food assistance cuts SNAP benefits TANF program US government shutdown USDA regulation