6.3 million people could be affected by a USDA proposal to narrow SNAP eligibility by limiting states’ ability to enroll people who qualify for certain other assistance programs.
17.6% of SNAP participants would lose benefits because their income or assets exceed federal limits under the rule, according to the agency’s analysis, which projects nearly $45 billion in federal savings from fiscal 2027 to 2031.
States would also cut about $5.2 billion in net SNAP spending over that five-year period as the change reaches full effect in fiscal 2029.
More than 5 million people have already lost SNAP access since July 2025, and the new proposal sets up a likely clash with Democrats as they prepare to take control of Congress next year.