The federal spending plan could reduce or eliminate SNAP benefits for over three million Texans.
HOUSTON — More than three million Texans who rely on SNAP benefits could see their food assistance reduced or eliminated under a sweeping federal spending plan expected to be signed into law tomorrow by President Trump. The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” would shift major funding responsibility from the federal government to states, forcing Texas to pay more than $800 million annually to maintain current benefit levels.
The legislation represents a significant overhaul of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which currently sees the federal government cover nearly all SNAP costs. Under the new plan, states would have to pick up a major chunk of that financial burden or risk cuts to benefits that feed millions of families nationwide, including over half a million in Harris County alone.
“We were devastated. It essentially takes food and healthcare away,” said Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas, describing her organization’s reaction to the new bill.
The impact on Texas would be substantial. If the state doesn’t cover the additional $800 million cost, families could see their benefits reduced or lose them entirely. The bill would also add new work requirements that advocates warn could strip SNAP benefits from 275,000 Texans.
Cole emphasized the critical role SNAP plays in fighting hunger across the state.
“For every meal that Texas food banks put on the table every year, the SNAP program puts nine. So it is doing the heavy lift to fight hunger,” she explained.
The changes would put additional pressure on food banks, particularly in Houston, which is home to the state’s largest food bank. When asked about the specific need in the Houston area, Cole noted that “the need is really high. Our inventories are depleted. We’re not getting the same level of support.”
Those expected to be hit hardest by the potential cuts include families, seniors, and veterans who rely on SNAP benefits to survive.
“These are our neighbors. We are a just and compassionate society. We care for one another,” Cole said.
The legislation will roll out in phases, with Texans expected to feel the impact over the next two years. Food banks warn they cannot make up for what would be lost if SNAP benefits are cut significantly.
Beyond SNAP changes, the spending bill includes other provisions that will affect Texas residents. It will cut back on Medicaid recipients by requiring able-bodied adults without children to work half-time, volunteer, or attend school to keep benefits. The bill will also eliminate taxes on tips and overtime pay, boost the child tax credit to $2,200, and provide more funding for border security, immigration enforcement, and defense.
The sweeping legislation reflects the tension between tax cuts that some are celebrating and program cuts that create uncertainty for millions of Americans who depend on federal assistance programs.