SNAP Benefits Resume, But New Work Rules Could Cut Off 124,000 Arizonans
WASHINGTON — SNAP food-aid payments have restarted following the recent federal shutdown, but Arizona officials and advocates warn that newly expanded work requirements could remove tens of thousands of residents from the program in the coming months.
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Roughly 124,000 SNAP recipients in Arizona are considered at risk of losing benefits under the updated rules, according to analysts tracking the policy changes.
The federal shift expands work, school, job-training, or volunteer requirements for able-bodied adults ages 18 to 64 without dependents. The prior cutoff was age 54. Recipients must show 80 hours per month of qualifying activity to stay eligible.
Some exemptions that previously shielded groups such as veterans, homeless individuals, and young adults leaving foster care have been removed. Parents with children under 14 remain exempt.
Arizona’s average SNAP benefit is about $186 per person per month, making it a key food lifeline for low-income households. Food-assistance groups say they’re preparing for increased demand if residents lose coverage.
Federal officials say states will begin enforcing the new rules after a three-month transition period.
Bottom line: benefits may have resumed — but thousands in Arizona could soon face a cutoff if they don’t meet the expanded requirements.