US SNAP Overhaul Cuts Food Aid for Over 4 Million People

More than 4 million Americans lost Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits between July and April after the Republican‑led One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced sweeping changes. The legislation tightens eligibility, adds work‑hour requirements for adults—including veterans, homeless individuals, and parents of teens—and reduces benefits for certain immigrant groups. Starting in October, states will face additional costs to fund SNAP, prompting concerns that some may scale back or withdraw from the program.

Child‑advocacy leaders warn the cuts will disproportionately affect children and families already facing food insecurity. Starsky Wilson, president of the Children’s Defense Fund, said the rapid loss of aid could heighten desperation among vulnerable households. Critics also cite a crackdown on fraud, but the primary impact remains the abrupt reduction in food assistance for millions of low‑income households.