Trump administration's new SNAP rules could cost Pennsylvania up to $400 million

The Trump administration is overhauling SNAP by first requiring states to fund three-quarters of program administration starting Oct. 1, ending decades of an even cost split. A second phase, set for a year later, would make states pay a portion of the actual benefits, which could obligate Pennsylvania to cover as much as $400 million of its $4 billion annual allotment. Governor Josh Shapiro’s team says the state budget cannot offset the loss of federal funding and fears hungry Pennsylvanians will lose aid.

An $87 million allocation has been earmarked to cover part of the new administrative costs, but experts warn the pressure will force stricter eligibility rules and benefit reductions. Lawmakers question whether other services, such as police and courts, will be diverted to meet the new SNAP obligations. The changes are part of President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which the White House claims will make the program more sustainable.