SNAP work requirements take effect across U.S. states | JQJO

Chicago — Federal changes to SNAP work requirements took effect this week, expanding mandatory work or training to able-bodied adults without dependents aged 18–64. State and local officials, food banks and recipients reported potential benefit losses and increased pantry demand. The law, signed in July 2025, raises the upper age limit from 54 to 64 and requires 80 monthly work or activity hours to retain benefits beyond three months. State data and agency statements estimate hundreds of thousands could be affected; the Congressional Budget Office projected up to 1.1 million could lose benefits. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.