CRAWFORD COUNTY, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—A sweeping federal law passed in July 2025 is set to significantly change who qualifies for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and under what conditions.
H.R. 1, (known as the One Big Beautiful Bill), introduced a series of reforms to SNAP, including expanded work requirements that will take effect in March 2026. Local officials say the changes will affect many Summit County residents who were previously exempt from mandatory employment rules.
Under the new law, certain individuals must now work at least 20 hours per week and submit appropriate documentation to continue receiving SNAP benefits. The updated requirements apply to several groups that had previously been exempt, including:
- Able-bodied adults without dependents ages 55 to 64
- Able-bodied adults with dependents older than 14
- Veterans
- Individuals experiencing homelessness
Residents who no longer qualify for an exemption and fail to meet the new work requirements face strict limits on benefit eligibility. Those who do not comply will be eligible for SNAP benefits for only three months within a three-year period. For example, individuals who fail to meet the requirements in March, April, and May 2026 could lose eligibility for benefits through March 2029.
Officials say the goal of the changes is to align SNAP more closely with workforce participation, but they acknowledge the new rules may create challenges for affected residents.