SNAP Cuts Threaten Millions Across Washington, New York, Food Banks Brace

The recently passed federal reconciliation bill, dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill,” has prompted widespread concern over significant cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) across multiple states, including Washington and New York. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson criticized the legislation for reducing benefits by an average of $56 monthly per household and tightening work requirements, which could lead to over 130,000 state residents losing aid, while also increasing state administrative costs by nearly $88 million. In New York, food banks report rising demand, with SNAP cuts expected to affect over 300,000 households, including many children and seniors, exacerbating food insecurity despite many recipients already working multiple jobs. Local food bank leaders highlighted the critical role of SNAP in providing meals at a scale that food pantries cannot match, warning that the cuts will intensify community needs and strain resources. Advocates also questioned the justification for the cuts, noting that fraud reduction does not correlate with the extent of funding reductions, and emphasized that current benefits are already insufficient. The bill's enactment is anticipated to increase hunger and economic pressure on vulnerable populations nationwide, with food assistance organizations preparing for a surge in demand and urging public support.