USDA Proposal Would End Automatic SNAP Access for 6.3 Million

The U.S. Department of Agriculture released a proposed rule on Monday that could remove automatic food assistance eligibility for 6.3 million people. The change targets a policy known as broad-based categorical eligibility.

Under the current system, states can use noncash TANF services, such as child care or workforce training, to qualify households for SNAP. This bypasses the standard income eligibility limit. The new proposal restricts automatic eligibility to households receiving cash assistance through the TANF program. Households relying only on noncash or nominal services would no longer qualify automatically.

The administration estimates the change would save $44.6 billion between 2027 and 2031. Officials cite concerns about waste and fraud as the primary reasons for the move. The rule states the goal is to standardize eligibility and preserve benefits for the truly needy.

The impact would extend beyond food stamps. The USDA estimates that 1.8 million children would lose eligibility for free school lunches under the proposed framework. Overall, nearly 18% of current SNAP recipients would lose their benefits.

The public has 30 days to submit comments on the proposed rule. The agency is reviewing these inputs before finalizing the policy changes for the next fiscal years.