New federal work rules for some SNAP recipients took effect March 1 in New York, affecting thousands of adults in Monroe County who now have to work, train or volunteer to keep their benefits.
Leaders across Monroe County have been reminding residents of the changes as it will affect thousands across the county.
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said that over 100,000 residents rely on SNAP benefits to help feed their families each month. With the new changes, he estimates over 4,000 people will be impacted.
What are the new SNAP rules?
In order to maintain SNAP benefits starting March 1, individuals who are defined as able-bodied adults without dependents will be required to work at least 80 hours out of the month or participate in qualifying work-related activities like job training or volunteer service.
Able-bodied adults without dependents are adults between the ages of 18 and 64 who do not have children under 14 in their household and are physically and mentally able to work.
New federal law expands work requirements for adults without dependents
Rita Vega, the citywide deputy director of the Housing-Benefits Initiative at Legal Services NYC, described how the new work rules apply to a new population since the rules have changed due to the passing of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
“Previously, individuals deemed ABAWD age 18 to 54 had to comply with work rules and the H.R. 1 Bill extended that to 64,” Vega said. “There’s also a change in who is exempted. Previously, veterans, homeless people and people aging out of foster care did not have to comply, but now they do, those are no longer exceptions.”
Vega encourages SNAP recipients and applicants to be aware of the changes and engage with the process.
“People should be aware of what’s going on, pay attention to what they may receive and not ignore any notices,” Vega said. “Reach out to legal services and organizations to get assessed and to get assistance.”
There is a three‑month grace period (March–May) before benefits are actually cut for noncompliance.
The Monroe County’s Department of Human Services has been mailing information to SNAP recipients who currently meet the guidelines. The letter outlines work requirements, reporting procedures, available exemptions and steps individuals must take to remain eligible.
The county is also hosting multiple in-person town halls to help residents who receive SNAP benefits navigate these changes and answer any questions. The town halls are open to the public:
Town hall dates, times and locations are:
For more information about SNAP changes, visit https://www.monroecounty.gov/snap-abawd-changes.
— Kerria Weaver works as the Government and You reporter for the Democrat and Chronicle, with a focus on how government actions affect communities and neighborhoods in Rochester and in Monroe County. Get in touch at kweaver@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: New SNAP work rules hit Monroe County as town halls begin
Reporting by Kerria Weaver, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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