Folks relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) here in Oklahoma and across the U.S. are preparing for big changes. Starting Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, new work requirements will officially take effect as part of former President Donald Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill." The legislation, passed last summer, cut an estimated $186 billion from SNAP funding through 2034, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

What Happened

SNAP, the largest nutrition assistance program in the United States, became a hot-button issue during the 43-day government shutdown in 2025. During the shutdown, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it would not pay benefits for the following month, leaving millions of families uncertain about how they’d put food on the table.

Funding was restored after a series of lawsuits challenged the USDA's decision and other program changes, including stricter eligibility requirements and requests for sensitive citizen data. However, the "Big Beautiful Bill," signed into law in July, had already set the stage for sweeping reforms to the program.

What’s Changing

The new work requirements, which start Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, will require certain SNAP recipients to meet expanded employment criteria to remain eligible for benefits. These rules aim to encourage workforce participation but have sparked concerns among advocacy groups about how they’ll impact vulnerable families.

SNAP benefits can still be used to buy a variety of food items, including:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products
• Breads and cereals
• Other foods such as snack foods and nonalcoholic beverages
• Seeds and plants, which produce food for the household to eat

However, with billions in funding cuts and stricter requirements, many families may find it harder to qualify for or maintain their benefits. According to reports, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that these changes will save the government billions over the next decade.

Impact on Oklahoma Families

Here in Oklahoma, where many families already face food insecurity, these changes are likely to hit hard. According to Feeding America, Oklahoma ranks among the top states for food insecurity, with one in six children unsure of where their next meal will come from.

Local food banks and assistance programs are bracing for an increase in demand. "We’re already seeing more folks coming through our doors," said Lisa Johnson, director of the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. "These changes are going to push even more families into tough situations."

For those affected, it’s important to understand the new rules and plan ahead. If you rely on SNAP and are unsure about how these changes might affect you, consider reaching out to your local Department of Human Services office or a community assistance program for guidance.

Background on the Shutdown

The 43-day government shutdown in 2025, the longest in U.S. history, put a spotlight on SNAP and other federal programs. During the shutdown, the USDA announced in October that it would not pay benefits for the following month. This led to widespread uncertainty and legal challenges, with advocates arguing that the decision disproportionately harmed low-income families.

While funding was eventually restored, the shutdown underscored the fragility of the program and the significant impact of federal budget disputes on everyday Americans. The new changes coming this Sunday are a direct result of the legislative priorities set during that period.

What’s Next

As these changes take effect, many are watching closely to see how they’ll play out. Advocacy groups have already raised concerns about the potential for increased food insecurity and the administrative burden of enforcing stricter rules. Meanwhile, supporters of the changes argue that they’ll encourage self-sufficiency and reduce government spending.

For now, Oklahoma families who rely on SNAP should focus on understanding the new requirements and seeking help if needed. Whether it’s through local food banks, community programs, or state resources, there are folks ready to lend a hand.