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A proposed U.S. Department of Agriculture rule could narrow who qualifies for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through state welfare programs. The USDA estimates that, if finalized, the change could mean 6.3 million people no longer receive SNAP in fiscal year 2029. That is a projection in a proposal, not a count of people already removed from the program.

What the proposed SNAP eligibility rule would change

SNAP rules currently let states use some Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits and services to establish categorical eligibility, which can simplify applications and allow households to qualify even when they exceed federal income or resource limits. The USDA proposal would restrict that pathway to households receiving TANF assistance as defined in federal regulations, and end categorical eligibility based on other TANF-funded or state-funded services.

The rule would not automatically remove every affected household on publication. States would have to assess eligibility under the remaining SNAP standards, and the USDA says its estimate reflects people whose income or resources exceed those federal limits. The agency says the proposal is intended to make eligibility more uniform and focus benefits on households meeting statutory standards; critics cited by news organizations argue it would reduce access for working families.

USDA estimates effects on SNAP and school meals

The USDA’s impact analysis projects that 3.2 million households, containing about 6.3 million people, would no longer receive SNAP in fiscal 2029, the first year the proposal is expected to reach its full effect. The estimate depends on the rule being adopted and on agency assumptions; it is not a forecast of immediate changes to current benefits.

The analysis also estimates that 1.78 million children would lose automatic categorical eligibility for free school meals through a household’s SNAP participation. The USDA says about 97% of those children would still qualify for free or reduced-price meals based on household income, but families would need to use another certification process. That distinction matters: loss of automatic qualification does not always mean loss of meal eligibility.

The proposal remains open for public comment

The proposal was published Nov. 10, and written comments are due Dec. 10, 2026. The USDA has not finalized the rule. Its estimates describe a possible future effect, with full implementation projected for fiscal 2029, rather than a change to benefits taking effect now.

For more food coverage, visit The Globuzz Food section.

Sources

Associated Press · Reuters · USDA proposed rule and comment deadline · Federal Register impact analysis