[RedState] BLUF: But incentives matter, too, and that's part of the ongoing rollout of SNAP reforms pushed by President Trump. Some of those reforms just went into effect on Sunday.
New work requirements are expanding across more states Sunday for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, the nation’s largest federal assistance program.
Starting today, adults between the ages of 18 and 64 without dependent children must work, participate in employment and training programs, or volunteer at least 80 hours per month to be eligible to receive SNAP benefits. Those who do not meet the requirement can receive benefits for only three months within a three-year period.
The new requirements expand work rules to additional groups that were previously exempt, including adults ages 55 to 64 and parents with children ages 14 or older. The law also eliminates prior exemptions for veterans, homeless people and individuals ages 18 to 24 who were in foster care when they turned 18, according to federal guidance.
The changes stem from provisions included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which President Donald Trump signed into law last summer.
In other words, there is a new incentive here: If you're able to work, then one way or another, you're going to. That's a good thing. Some of these people doubtless have skills that can be put to good use. If not, well, there is always litter along the roadways and highways that needs to be picked up, and ditches that need to be dug. |