The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a proposed rule on November 10, 2026 that would eliminate the expanded automatic eligibility system for SNAP, known as BBCE (Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility). If this proposal becomes law, approximately 6.3 million people — in about 3.2 million households — would lose access to food assistance. The deadline to submit public comments is December 10, 2026.
This is the same proposal the Trump administration attempted to implement in 2019, which the Biden administration withdrew in 2021. It is now being presented in a version the USDA describes as simpler for states to implement.
What BBCE is and why it affects so many people
BBCE is a mechanism currently used by 46 of 50 states to extend SNAP eligibility to families receiving some form of TANF assistance — not just cash, but also services such as childcare vouchers, job training programs, or referrals to social services. Thanks to BBCE, many states have been able to raise the income limit above the federal 130% of the poverty level and eliminate asset limits, allowing working families with moderate-low incomes to receive benefits.
The USDA proposal would limit automatic eligibility only to families receiving direct cash assistance from TANF — excluding those who only receive non-cash services. This would cut out millions of households that currently qualify without going through a separate income and asset review.
Who would lose benefits
According to USDA’s own estimates, if the rule takes effect in fiscal year 2029:
6.3 million people would lose SNAP. 1.78 million children would lose automatic eligibility for free school meals — although 97% could re-qualify by submitting an income-based application; about 28,000 children would have to pay full price. Approximately 42,000 children would lose Summer EBT access starting summer 2029. About 5,500 women, infants, and children would lose WIC eligibility.
More than 840,000 one- and two-person households that currently receive the minimum benefit of $23 per month solely through BBCE would also be cut off.
How much the government would save
The USDA estimates the proposal would reduce federal SNAP spending by approximately $44.65 billion between fiscal years 2027 and 2031. States would also see a net SNAP reduction of about $5.24 billion, though their administrative costs would rise by roughly $928 million — a burden that would fall primarily on state agencies.
What happens next and how to comment
This is a proposal, not a final rule. It must go through a public comment period that closes on December 10, 2026, after which the USDA will review the feedback before deciding whether to finalize the rule. If approved, the effects would not be felt until fiscal year 2029.
Anyone can submit official comments for or against the proposal. Options are: online at regulations.gov, docket FNA-2026-0661; by email at sm.fn.snappdbrules@usda.gov; or by mail to SNAP Program Development Division, Food and Nutrition Administration, 5601 Sunnyside Ave., Beltsville, MD 20705.
What this means for your case right now
If you currently receive SNAP, your benefits are not changing right now. This proposal does not affect November or December 2026 payments. Current eligibility rules will remain in place while the regulatory process is open. If the rule is finalized, states will have time to adjust their systems before it takes effect.
The most important thing is to stay current with your renewals and case documentation. If you ever receive a letter from your state SNAP agency notifying you of a change in your benefits, respond within the stated deadline and, if you need help, contact a free legal aid organization in your area.