Washington residents who depend on food assistance through the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) are beginning to feel the impact of new federal SNAP policy changes connected to legislation supported during the Trump administration.
According to DSHS, nearly one million people in Washington receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly known in the state as “Basic Food.” Recent federal changes under H.R. 1 are expected to significantly affect eligibility requirements, especially for adults considered able-bodied and without dependents.
One of the biggest changes involves expanded work requirements. Under the updated rules, many adults between the ages of 18 and 64 who do not qualify for exemptions must now complete work, job training, or volunteer activities to continue receiving food assistance benefits. DSHS states that recipients who fail to meet these requirements may only receive benefits for three months within a 36-month period.
DSHS also confirmed that some groups previously exempt from work requirements, including certain veterans, homeless individuals, and former foster youth, may now be required to meet federal work participation standards to maintain SNAP eligibility.
However, the agency says exemptions still exist for people who are pregnant, disabled, under age 18, over age 65, or caring for children younger than 14. American Indian and Alaska Native recipients also remain exempt under the updated federal guidance.
In addition to work requirements, DSHS announced that some immigrants who were previously eligible for federal SNAP benefits will instead be transitioned to state-funded food assistance programs. Refugees, asylees, and immigrants with humanitarian protections are among those affected. The agency says benefit amounts are expected to remain the same during the transition process.
Critics of the federal policy changes argue that tighter requirements could increase food insecurity for low-income households already struggling with rising living costs. Supporters say the reforms are intended to reduce fraud and encourage workforce participation among able-bodied adults.
Washington DSHS continues to encourage residents to review their eligibility status and report any changes in employment or household income immediately. The agency also recommends participation in the Basic Food Employment and Training (BFET) program, which provides job training, employment support, transportation assistance, and educational services to eligible recipients.
Residents can learn more directly from DSHS through the following official resources:
• DSHS Benefits and H.R. 1
• Washington Basic Food Program
• DSHS Basic Food Work Requirements
