SNAP’s funding model is changing. Here’s what that means : NPR

Key Points:

• The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding model is being restructured, shifting from an even federal-state cost split to states covering 75% of operational costs, while federal funding is halved starting Thursday.
• This change is expected to reduce federal SNAP spending by $16.9 billion over five years, with states like California, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Michigan facing significant financial burdens to offset the loss.
• Beginning in October 2027, states may also have to pay for a portion of food benefits if their error rates exceed 6%, potentially costing some states over $1 billion annually, especially California and New York.
• Experts warn these funding shifts could force states to cut other programs, restrict SNAP access, or even withdraw from the program, exacerbating challenges for low-income families.
• The changes stem from the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which also imposed stricter work requirements and ended food aid eligibility for some noncitizens, contributing to a decline in SNAP recipients from 42 million to 36 million since the law's enactment.