Thrifty Food Plan Freeze
SNAP benefits, based on the Thrifty Food Plan, will see frozen major updates until 2027. Future revisions must be cost-neutral, limiting increases, and regional flexibility has been removed. Cost-of-living adjustments will continue but are now capped by household size, reducing growth for larger families.
States Face Higher Costs
The federal share of administrative costs will drop from 50% to 25% starting in fiscal 2027, leaving states to cover more of the expense. States with high error rates in benefit payments face financial penalties, adding pressure to already tight budgets. Florida alone anticipates tens of millions in additional costs annually under the new system.
The Big Picture
These reforms mark a major shift toward stricter eligibility, increased state accountability, and reduced federal spending. Supporters praise the bill for closing loopholes and promoting self-sufficiency. Critics warn it could push vulnerable Americans deeper into food insecurity, especially older adults, low-income families, and certain immigrant groups.
As state agencies prepare to implement these changes before November, millions of Americans will feel the impact. The coming months could redefine who receives federal food assistance and how the nation supports its most vulnerable populations.
Have you or someone you know been affected by SNAP changes? Share your thoughts below — your voice matters in this critical conversation about food security.