One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1): How Changes to SNAP, WIC, and Senior Food Programs Could Impact Long Islanders

The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1) includes several major changes to federal nutrition assistance programs that help millions of Americans access food. While many of these provisions are typically debated as part of the Farm Bill, they were included in this legislation and could have significant consequences for food insecurity, hunger relief, and food assistance programs on Long Island and across the country.

Here's what Long Islanders need to know about the bill's impact on SNAP benefits, WIC funding, and senior nutrition assistance programs.

Changes to SNAP Benefits Could Affect Food Security for Thousands

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the nation's largest hunger-relief program, helping individuals and families purchase groceries and maintain access to nutritious food.

Expanded SNAP Work Requirements

Under H.R. 1, work requirements have been expanded for individuals classified as Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). The changes apply to adults ages 18–65, including some parents with children ages 13–17.

To continue receiving SNAP benefits beyond three months within a three-year period, individuals subject to the rule must meet employment or qualifying work activity requirements.

Why SNAP Matters

SNAP is one of the most effective tools for reducing hunger in America. For every one meal distributed by Island Harvest Food Bank, SNAP helps provide approximately nine meals.

When access to SNAP benefits is reduced, local food banks and food pantries often experience increased demand as families seek additional assistance. Even modest changes to eligibility requirements can result in millions of Americans losing access to food assistance.

WIC Funding Remains a Critical Priority

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health referrals for pregnant individuals, infants, and young children.

The U.S. Senate has allocated $8.2 billion in WIC funding, helping ensure eligible families can continue receiving vital nutrition support.

Hunger-relief advocates are encouraging the House of Representatives to maintain the same funding level to protect access to WIC services for families nationwide.

Senior Food Assistance Through CSFP Remains at Risk

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) helps older adults with limited incomes access nutritious food each month. Through the program, eligible Long Island seniors receive approximately 35 pounds of food monthly.

To qualify in 2026, a senior's income must be $1,967 per month or less.

Following strong advocacy efforts from anti-hunger organizations and community partners, there is cautious optimism that CSFP will remain fully funded at $425 million in federal fiscal year 2026.

Maintaining funding for senior nutrition programs is essential as many older adults continue to face rising food, housing, and healthcare costs.

What These Nutrition Program Changes Mean for Long Island

Federal nutrition programs such as SNAP, WIC, and CSFP are critical components of the hunger-relief network. Together, they help children, families, seniors, veterans, and working adults access healthy food while reducing pressure on charitable food assistance organizations.

As policymakers continue to debate funding and eligibility requirements, Island Harvest Food Bank remains committed to advocating for policies that help end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island.

Take Action: Stay Informed About Hunger Relief Policy

Advocacy plays an important role in protecting food assistance programs that help vulnerable community members.

To stay informed about legislation affecting SNAP, WIC, CSFP, food insecurity, and hunger relief on Long Island, subscribe to the Island Harvest Advocacy Newsletter and review its 2026 Advocacy Platform.