The administration announced new SNAP work rules that have left 22,000 New Yorkers without federal food benefits.

The administration announced new work rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that have resulted in 22,000 New Yorkers losing their benefits. Department of Social Services Commissioner Erin Dalton noted that the majority of those affected are younger than 35. While the administration maintains that these expanded requirements are designed to curb waste and fraud, city officials argue the rules push eligible residents off a vital federal entitlement program. The new rules eliminated a long-standing waiver for New York state, requiring veterans and homeless individuals to also prove they are working, volunteering, or in school. Jilly Stephens, CEO of City Harvest, observed that many residents are now working multiple jobs to balance rising costs. Meanwhile, Greg Silverman, CEO of the West Side Campaign Against Hunger, reported that pantry workers are spending more time helping residents navigate the new requirements. Despite the increase in demand at local food pantries, advocates emphasize that these facilities cannot fully replace the scale of support provided by SNAP.

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