The possible loss of SNAP benefits in 2025

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Recent discussions at the federal level regarding significant cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have raised concerns in communities, including Buchanan County, Missouri.

These proposed reductions, part of a broader push to trim federal spending under the "Big Beautiful Bill" recently passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, aims to cut nearly 300 billion over the next decade. Officials are warning this could be marked as the most substantial cut in history.

Baylee Watts, media director for the Missouri Department of Social Services, said in an email, the department can't comment on the matter through an interview, but did provide a statement.

"The Department of Social Services continues to closely monitor the situation and work with our state and federal partners," Watts said.

According to Alfred, in 2022 approximately 13,050 individuals in Buchanan County, Missouri, benefited from SNAP assistance.

In Buchanan County, where a significant portion of the population relies on SNAP benefits, these changes could exacerbate food insecurity and place additional pressure on local food banks and community organizations,

Here are some of the specific proposed changes to SNAP:

• Able-bodied adults without dependents up to age 64 must work at least 20 hours per week to maintain eligibility.
• States would face limitations on their ability to waive work requirements.
• Shift a significant portion of SNAP's administration and benefit costs to states.

Missouri, for instance, could be required to cover an additional $405 million to maintain current benefit levels.

Waiting for further direction on the matter, Watts said the department will continue to monitor the situation in anticipation of possible changes.

"In the event of any changes, we will promptly notify impacted individuals and organizations."

News-Press NOW will continue to update this story.