Potential adjustments to federal food aid may disproportionately impact Kentucky residents
In June 2025, nearly 600,000 Kentuckians received help buying food through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), with a total of $96 million in benefits distributed, all of which came from the federal government. This assistance was crucial for many families, as about 39.28% of SNAP recipients were under the age of 18, with 220,000 being children.
The average SNAP household in Kentucky received $343 a month, and there were 280,771 active SNAP households, with 562,105 individuals receiving benefits. The majority of these benefits went to children younger than 18.
However, changes are on the horizon for the SNAP program. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed by Congress, includes potential modifications that could significantly decrease the number of people eligible for food benefits in Kentucky. Among these changes are expanded work requirements and a mandate for states to assume financial responsibility for benefits issued in error.
Starting Oct. 1, 2026, the cost of administering SNAP will shift, putting 75% of the cost on states. This shift will cost Kentucky $66 million, according to Department for Community Based Services Commissioner Lesa Dennis. Kentucky may need to pay an additional $200 million, based on the 2024 error rate of nearly 10%.
Rep. Jason Petrie, R-Elkton, is closely examining these recent changes to SNAP at the federal level. The Republican-controlled General Assembly may not have a clear appetite to provide the necessary funding, which could pose a challenge for the state.
It's important to note that SNAP - and access to food in general - affects various aspects such as poverty, child wellbeing, economic growth, and more. About 70% of all Child Protective Services allegations are related to neglect and poverty. Hunger causes familial stress and instability in the home.
Additionally, the budget bill that recently passed Congress cuts federal funding for SNAP Ed, a program that teaches families how to cook and budget, administered through the University of Kentucky. SNAP Ed doesn't offer benefits, only education, and costs about $11 million to operate.
As Kentucky prepares for these changes, local food banks are anticipated to see a rise in demand to support those affected by increased food insecurity. The state, which took in $16 billion in revenue for its General Fund during the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2025, will need to find ways to meet these challenges and ensure the continued wellbeing of its citizens.
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