SNAP Work Requirements Begin in States February 1

New work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are taking effect in several U.S. states beginning February 1, potentially affecting millions of low-income adults who rely on the federal food assistance for groceries and essentials.

The requirements stem from a major tax and spending bill signed into law by President Donald Trump in July. Under the previous rules, able-bodied adults without dependents, aged 18 to 54, had to work, volunteer or participate in job training for at least 80 hours per month to receive SNAP benefits beyond three months in a three-year period. The new law expands this to adults up to age 64 and removes exemptions for parents caring for children aged 14 to 17. It also eliminates work exemptions previously granted to homeless individuals, veterans and young adults aging out of foster care. States' ability to waive requirements in high-unemployment areas has been curtailed, though some waivers remain in place temporarily.

To comply, eligible adults must work at least 80 hours a month, join a work program for that duration, combine work and training to reach 80 hours or complete assigned hours in a workfare program, according...