A new piece of legislation could result in the loss of food-stamp benefits for around 300,000 New Yorkers, adding a layer of uncertainty for vulnerable groups in the city.
The law, signed by President Trump, introduces stricter work requirements and other eligibility changes for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), potentially leaving many without crucial support.
The changes could disproportionately affect those already struggling, including the homeless and certain noncitizens. As food prices continue to rise, the cuts threaten to push thousands of New Yorkers further into poverty.
Work Requirements Under New Legislation
Under the new law, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, certain groups of people who previously received food stamps without work requirements will now be subjected to them. The law mandates that able-bodied individuals must either work, volunteer, or engage in job-seeking activities to maintain their eligibility for food benefits.
This change will primarily affect those who are homeless or in vulnerable positions, such as veterans or older adults. According to the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, about 400,000 New Yorkers may no longer be exempt from these requirements, with approximately 300,000 of them at risk of losing their food benefits entirely.
Social workers, like those who have been assisting Jessica Garcia, a 40-year-old homeless woman in Manhattan, express concern that it is nearly impossible for people in such situations to meet these new demands. Without access to basic facilities or documentation, many will find it difficult, if not impossible, to comply.
Potential Economic Fallout for Local Businesses
The ripple effects of these cuts will likely extend far beyond the affected individuals. According to experts, small businesses, especially those relying on customers who use food stamps, will face economic challenges as spending power diminishes. In New York City, many local delis and bodegas depend heavily on SNAP participants.
For example, Cham Gonzalez, manager of a store in Spanish Harlem, revealed that nearly 30% of his customers pay with Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. The loss of benefits could lead to a decline in sales, making it harder for these establishments to stay afloat.
Furthermore, the changes are expected to place a significant financial burden on the state. New York may have to shoulder $1.4 billion in costs due to increased error rates in the program, according to Barbara C. Guinn, commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
This shift in responsibility has raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of SNAP, particularly as state administrators face new challenges with funding.
The new law has prompted backlash from many, including Governor Kathy Hochul, who described the cuts as “cruel” and warned that they would exacerbate financial hardship for those already living on the edge.
