Trump administration has pushed off 13% of Americans enrolled in food stamps
Summary
SNAP enrollment fell from 41.6 million people in July 2025 to 36.5 million in June 2026, a 13% decline, after the Trump administration changed eligibility rules and program costs. Food-bank groups and officials say demand for food assistance has risen, while the administration has described the enrollment decline as a sign that more people are working.Key Facts
- US Department of Agriculture data show SNAP enrollment dropped by 5.1 million between July 2025 and June 2026.
- The new rules require many adults ages 18 to 64 without a child under 14 to work or volunteer at least 20 hours per week to qualify for benefits.
- The Congressional Budget Office projected the SNAP changes would reduce spending by about $187 billion over 10 years.
- Starting in October, states must pay 75% of SNAP administrative costs, up from 50%.
- Arizona’s SNAP enrollment fell 50% from July 2025 to June 2026, while Kentucky’s fell 6%.
- Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said he was concerned the changes would leave more people, including children and older adults, hungry.
- Michigan’s food bank helpline received more than three times as many calls per day after the changes and temporarily suspended service because of high call volume.
- The administration has praised the decline in SNAP enrollment, while food-assistance groups say food needs have increased.
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