Nearly 3 Million New Yorkers Could Lose SNAP Benefits Under New Work Rules

Nearly three million New Yorkers risk losing SNAP benefits in the coming weeks due to new work requirements and the ongoing federal budget impasse. The “One Big Beautiful Bill” proposed by congressional Republicans introduces stricter rules, while government funding shortfalls threaten timely benefit distribution.

Under the new policy, beginning November 1, caregivers of children aged 14–17 and adults aged 55–64 will no longer be exempt from work requirements. Beneficiaries in these groups must meet work criteria to receive SNAP assistance. Areas with unemployment above 10% may apply for temporary waivers, but most New York districts fall below this threshold.

Governor Kathy Hochul’s office reported that the highest number of SNAP recipients is in Bronx District 15, represented by Democratic Congressman Ritchie Torres, where 272,857 people receive benefits. Rural districts also have significant numbers, with around 85,000–90,000 recipients in Districts 19, 21, 23, and 24.

According to New York State Labor Department data, unemployment in August was 7.8% in the Bronx, 5–6% in other parts of New York City, and 5.3% in St. Lawrence County—below the 10% waiver threshold.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture notified state agencies on October 10 that, due to the ongoing congressional budget stalemate, it lacks funds to provide full SNAP benefits nationwide in November. Approximately 42 million people across the country could face partial or delayed assistance.

Most SNAP beneficiaries are children, seniors, or people with disabilities. Barbara Guinn, commissioner of the state’s Temporary and Disability Assistance office, emphasized that many families rely on SNAP to put food on the table, particularly as housing, energy, and food costs rise.

The new law also increases state administrative responsibility to 75% of program costs next year, making SNAP management more complex and expensive.