Brand new work requirements for Food Stamp recipients are in effect now.
Now (As of Sept. 1) – able-bodied adults without dependents, referred to as ABAWDs, who are 18 to 50 years old must show they are working at least 80 hours a month or enrolled in a training program to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Before September 1st, the age range was 18-49.
On Oct. 1, the age range will increase to 52, and, a year later on Oct. 1, 2024, it goes up again, this time to 54.
The new requirements will be in effect through Oct. 1, 2030.
Homeless people, veterans, and adults ages 18-24 who’ve aged out of foster care are exempt from the requirements as are all those who are unable to work due to any physical or mental limitation, are pregnant or currently have someone under 18 in their household.
SNAP recipients who do not meet those work requirements are limited to only three months of benefits in a three-year period.
The changes were part of the debt ceiling deal hammered out between Republicans and President Joe Biden in May.
Nationally, the deal could put SNAP benefits at risk for 750,000 adults, nearly half of whom are women. An analysis by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities predicts 13,000 of those at risk of losing benefits are in Alabama.
According to the National Association of Counties, some 41.5 million low-income individuals receive monthly SNAP benefits. In general, SNAP recipients must have an income at OR BELOW 130% of the federal poverty level and NOT possess assets of more than $2,250.