Over 1.2 million children lose SNAP aid after 2025 tax bill changes

A new study finds that more than 1.2 million children were removed from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program between July 2025 and 2026, and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities believes the true number could exceed 1.5 million. Experts attribute the rapid decline to the tax and spending bill signed by Donald Trump, which cut federal spending, imposed tougher work rules for adult SNAP recipients, and increased state cost responsibilities.

The loss occurs despite stable unemployment and wages, suggesting the drop does not stem from less need. Additional factors include immigration-related eligibility changes that may have discouraged participation among legal immigrants and refugees. Critics who view the decline as a sign of reduced reliance on federal aid are challenged by analysts who note that many of the lost benefits were tied to pandemic-era expansions now ending.