SNAP participation declines in Nebraska and Oklahoma following federal policy changes

States in the central United States are reporting significant declines in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation following the passage of H.R. 1, also known as the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act’ in July 2025.

In Nebraska, monthly participation dropped to 116,703 in July, a decrease of approximately 33,000 people compared to the previous year. Advocates from Nebraska Appleseed noted that nearly half of those losing assistance are youth under age 19, with 13% of the annual loss consisting of children under age 5. Concerns were raised during a legislative hearing regarding the increased strain on food banks and school nutrition programs.

In Oklahoma, more than 130,000 residents have lost SNAP benefits since July 2025, representing a decline of over 19 percent. The reduction is attributed to H.R. 1, which expanded work reporting requirements, eliminated exemptions for veterans and people experiencing homelessness, and restricted eligibility for certain immigrants.

The legislation also alters the funding structure for the program. Starting in fiscal year 2027, the federal government will reduce its share of SNAP administrative costs from 50 percent to 25 percent. Additionally, starting in 2028, states with payment error rates exceeding 6 percent may be required to fund a portion of benefits previously covered by the federal government.