WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is requiring every person enrolled in the federal food stamp program to reapply for their benefits. Administration officials describe the step as a key effort to eliminate fraud, while opponents argue it risks cutting off essential support for millions of struggling Americans.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the policy Thursday, saying it would ensure that only eligible individuals receive assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. The requirement applies to everyone currently enrolled, regardless of when they last certified their eligibility.
“Everyone will have to reapply,” Rollins said in a statement. “This is about restoring integrity to a vital program and making sure taxpayer dollars go to those who truly need them.”
The decision comes amid broader changes to SNAP under the incoming administration, including expanded work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents. Starting next year, more recipients will face time limits on benefits unless they meet employment or training mandates, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Advocates for the poor are expressing alarm, arguing that the reapplication process could create bureaucratic hurdles and accidental lapses in coverage. “This isn’t just red tape; it’s a barrier that could leave families hungry,” said Eric Mitchell, executive director of the Alliance to End Hunger. A 2021 study suggested similar work rules could cause up to half of eligible adults to lose benefits.
SNAP serves about 42 million people monthly, providing an average of $200 per person in grocery assistance. Eligibility is based on income, assets, and household size, and most recipients are required to recertify periodically — often every 6 to 12 months. The new mandate overrides those timelines, forcing a universal review.
States administer the program but must comply with federal rules. New York officials estimated that the changes, including tighter eligibility requirements for immigrants, could strain local resources and reduce enrollment.
The policy echoes efforts during Trump’s first term to impose stricter work requirements, which were partially blocked by courts. Administration officials did not provide a timeline for when reapplications must be completed, but said guidance would be issued soon.
Critics, including Democratic lawmakers, called it an attack on vulnerable populations. “At a time when food prices are high, this is the wrong direction,” said Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee.
The USDA did not immediately respond to requests for comment on potential impacts.
