URGENT UPDATE: The USDA has just announced a sweeping review of its programs to ensure that only American citizens receive food stamp benefits. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins confirmed that the agency is taking decisive action to remove illegal immigrants from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as SNAP.
At the direction of President Trump, the USDA is now requiring states to submit recipient data in a bid to combat fraud, waste, and abuse. “At @POTUS’ direction, we will be reviewing ALL @USDA PROGRAMS to ensure only legal citizens are receiving benefits,” Rollins stated on social media. Earlier this year, the USDA reminded states that illegal immigrants and certain non-citizens are ineligible for SNAP benefits.
Rollins emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating, “Even though 22 blue states have refused to provide the data, we are using every tool to compel their compliance. WHAT are they hiding? WHO are they hiding?” Her comments come amidst rising concerns about rampant fraud in the program, with reports indicating that over 186,000 deceased individuals are still receiving SNAP payments.
The USDA is not only targeting fraud but also revising eligibility criteria. A new provision from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act took effect on Monday, raising the qualifying age for work requirements from 54 to 64. This change mandates that individuals must engage in qualifying work or activities for at least 80 hours a month to receive benefits. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that this rule change could lead to a reduction of about 2.4 million people on SNAP over the next decade.
In a recent interview on Fox Business, Rollins expressed her commitment to ensuring that benefits go to those who genuinely need them, stating, “We’re going to protect the taxpayer.” She indicated the intention for all SNAP recipients to undergo a reapplication process to root out fraud.
The USDA’s push for compliance follows significant pushback from states. Currently, 21 states and the District of Columbia are challenging the Trump administration’s new rules regarding immigrant eligibility for SNAP and have filed lawsuits against these changes.
This developing situation raises questions about the future of food assistance for millions of Americans. With the USDA actively pursuing compliance and regulatory changes, the impact on families relying on SNAP benefits could be profound.
As the agency continues its review, further updates are expected. Rollins has stated that the USDA is determined to uncover the extent of fraud and ensure that taxpayer dollars are safeguarded. The ongoing analysis of state data, along with improved collaboration with states, will be key components of this effort.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue as it unfolds.
