SNAP enrollment drops by over 5 million following new work requirements

Recent data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) indicates a significant decline in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment. Between September 2025 and April 2026, the number of people receiving benefits fell by approximately 5.3 million, dropping from over 42 million to roughly 37 million.

The decline follows the implementation of new work requirements mandated by the Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. Under this legislation, more adults—including those aged 55 to 64, veterans, homeless individuals, and parents of children aged 14 to 17—must now prove they work, volunteer, or participate in job training for at least 80 hours per month to maintain eligibility.

Geographic impacts vary significantly. Arizona experienced the largest decrease, with enrollment dropping by over 400,000 people, a decline of nearly 55%. Other states, including Florida, Georgia, and Louisiana, saw declines exceeding 20%. Alaska was the only state to report an increase in enrollment, rising by 8.2% during the same period. The Congressional Budget Office projects the legislation could reduce SNAP federal spending by $186 billion over the next decade.