More than 80,000 Kentuckians losing access to SNAP, governor says
FRANKFORT, Ky. – During Thursday’s Team Kentucky update, Gov. Andy Beshear addressed the loss of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program coverage for thousands of Kentuckians.
According to a release by the governor’s office, Beshear said more than 80,000 Kentuckians are losing access to SNAP benefits after federal changes.
Beshear further stated he has sent a letter to Brooke Rollins, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture for the Trump administration, along with sending a letter to Kentucky’s congressional delegation, to raise concerns about the situation.
The governor’s office says Beshear also highlighted that the overall Kentucky impact includes 24,655 children and 6,572 older adults.
According to the Food and Drug Administration’s website, following the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, citizens may notice changes to SNAP work requirements, non-citizen eligibility and more.
The FDA clarifies, stating, “SNAP eligibility has never been extended to undocumented non-citizens.”
SNAP recipients are excused from general work requirements if they are any of the following, according to the FDA:
- Already working at least 30 hours a week (or earning wages at least equal to the federal minimum wage multiplied by 30 hours);
- Meeting work requirements for another program (TANF or unemployment compensation);
- Taking care of a child under six or an incapacitated person;
- Unable to work due to a physical or mental limitation;
- Participating regularly in an alcohol or drug treatment program;
- Studying in school or a training program at least half-time (but college students are subject to other eligibility rules).
More information on work requirements can be found here. To check eligibility requirements, click here.
For local residents facing a loss of SNAP benefits, the following resources may be helpful:
- Dial 211. The service connects residents with assistance for needs such as rent, utility bills, food, transportation and other community resources.
- For an online list of food resources, click here.
