GOP Tax Bill Proposes Historic Cuts to Food Stamp Program, Sparking Concerns over Hunger and Economic Impact

A new Republican-backed tax bill proposes sweeping changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), potentially slashing the program’s funding by nearly 30%—a move experts say would mark the largest cut in the program’s history.

The bill, branded the “big, beautiful” tax package, seeks to reduce SNAP funding by approximately $300 billion through 2034. Proposed changes include expanding work requirements and shifting significant financial responsibility to individual states, which could force them to implement stricter eligibility measures or cut benefits.

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“The House Republican plan would take away food assistance for millions who struggle to afford the high cost of groceries,” said Ty Jones Cox, vice president for food assistance policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP).

Currently serving more than 40 million Americans—including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities—SNAP is considered a crucial lifeline. Under the proposal, federal funding cuts ranging from 5% to 25% would begin in 2028, with states expected to make up the difference.

“The change in the bill that is most dramatic is asking states to share part of the benefit cost,” said Elaine Waxman, senior fellow at the Urban Institute. “That’s new; since SNAP was originated, the federal government has always paid the full cost of the benefits.”

Woman covered her face with her hands | Source: Pexels

The bill also aims to expand work requirements, affecting 5.4 million individuals. According to the Urban Institute, 1.8 million people—including 48,000 children—could lose benefits entirely, while 3.6 million may receive reduced benefits. Families losing support could see a reduction averaging $254 per month.

Advocates warn that in addition to harming vulnerable populations, the cuts would hurt local economies. “People spend SNAP dollars right away, and they spend them locally,” Waxman said. “It has all these ripples that will hurt a lot of people.”