States may still request waivers if local unemployment rates are high. The law also tightens immigration eligibility, restricting SNAP benefits to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Previously, certain non-citizens, including individuals with humanitarian status, could qualify.

This change is expected to impact roughly 90,000 people per month, according to CBO estimates. Meanwhile, updates to the Thrifty Food Plan — which determines benefit amounts — will be frozen until 2027 to limit cost increases. Supporters say the reforms promote accountability and reduce fraud, while critics warn they could increase food insecurity among low-income families. State agencies are now preparing to roll out the new rules before the November deadline.