## Oregon SNAP Benefits Face Significant Changes, Impacting Thousands
Recent changes to federal rules are poised to effect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for over 313,000 Oregonians, leading to concerns about increased food insecurity and economic repercussions. These changes,implemented by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS),impact households receiving energy assistance,able-bodied adults without dependents,and eligible immigrants.
According to the Centre on Budget and Policy Priorities,nearly 20% of Oregonians relied on SNAP benefits during the last fiscal year.Now, access to the Full Utility Allowance (FUA) is being restricted. Only households wiht a member aged 60 or older, or with a disability, will automatically qualify. This change will result in approximately 29,000 households losing the benefit, averaging a $58 monthly reduction in SNAP assistance. Roughly 9,600 households will see these reductions starting next month, with an additional 20,000 impacted when their SNAP cases are reviewed.
Able-bodied adults without dependents face stricter work requirements. The age range for these requirements has expanded from 18-54 to 18-64, and eligible adults must now work or participate in a qualifying activity for at least 80 hours a month. Previously exempt groups – veterans,individuals experiencing homelessness,and young adults transitioning from foster care – are now subject to these work rules.
These new work rules began Wednesday in Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Yamhill, Benton, and Hood River counties, and will be implemented statewide in January. approximately 310,000 adults will be reevaluated for eligibility.
Furthermore, roughly 3,000 lawfully present immigrants – including refugees, asylees, and trafficking survivors – who were eligible as of July 3, 2025, will no longer qualify for SNAP benefits. Approximately 1,000 individuals will lose benefits by November, with another 2,000 losing them at their next review.
Governor Tina Kotek has voiced strong opposition to these changes, stating, “I strongly oppose these changes. Our top priority now is making sure every impacted Oregonian knows what’s changing and where to turn for help. No one should have to choose between food and rent.” Her administration is working to provide information and referrals to those affected.
ODHS will begin sending notices around October 15th to over 10,000 households regarding the status of their SNAP benefits, which will be adjusted automatically.
The Oregon Food Bank is prepared to support Oregonians during this transition.”Oregon Food Bank believes everyone deserves access to nourishing food, regardless of income, age, or immigration status,” said Rachael Lucille of the Oregon Food Bank. “We are deeply concerned that these federal SNAP changes will increase hunger and hardship in our communities.”
Individuals in need can find food resources through the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder website, the ODHS website at https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/default.aspx, or by dialing 211. State economists predict these cuts will result in a $1.6 billion hit to Oregon’s economy annually.