by Carson City, Nevada – Upcoming changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are expected to hit more than 133,000 residents across Nevada, raising alarms among food security advocates.
Starting January 31, 2026, stricter eligibility requirements under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will expand work rules for recipients. Currently applying to adults up to age 54, the mandate will now extend to those aged 18–64. The law also removes long-standing exemptions for veterans, homeless individuals, former foster youth, and parents with children over 13.
Rising Demand for Food Banks
Jocelyn Lantrip, director of marketing and communications for the Food Bank of Northern Nevada, warned the cuts could further overwhelm nonprofits already stretched thin.
- The food bank currently helps 160,000 people each month.
- Demand has surged 76% since before the pandemic, Lantrip said.
- Families with children are expected to be among the hardest hit.
“We are absolutely anticipating an increase in need,” Lantrip told The Center Square. “More than half of SNAP households include children, so kids will be directly affected.”
Broader Community Impact
Advocates say the fallout goes beyond hunger.
- Education: Children missing meals struggle in school.
- Workforce readiness: Food insecurity can hinder future employment.
- Health: Lack of nutrition puts long-term strain on public health systems.
“When one in five children in Nevada are missing meals, it becomes everyone’s problem,” Lantrip said.
Political Pushback
The looming cuts have drawn criticism from Nevada lawmakers. U.S. Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) recently joined a Meals on Wheels delivery to seniors, highlighting the urgency of addressing food insecurity.
While nonprofits are bracing for a surge in demand, leaders stress that additional state and federal support will be crucial to prevent thousands of Nevadans from losing reliable access to food.
