Some New York State Residents Could Get More SNAP Benefits Soon

New York State residents who need assistance in fighting food insecurities could be getting more money soon. A state legislator is pushing for an increase of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.

New York State Senator Rachel May recently introduced Bill S7663A. The bill aims to increase the amount of funds New York receives above the federal amount. If it passes, Bill S7663A,

Establishes a state SNAP minimum benefit program to provide a minimum amount of supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits that is higher than the amount of federal SNAP benefits.

If a household is receiving less than $100 SNAP benefits from the federal government, New York state would provide monies to bring the benefits up to $100.

The bill is still in its early stages. With inflation tightening its grip on New Yorkers' wallets, it seems like this will should gain support in the Assembly and the Senate.

8 Counties Used The Most Food Stamps In New York State

Millions of New York State residents rely on SNAP According to Hunger Solutions NY,

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps 2.8 million New Yorkers, including 851,000 children, put food on the table. SNAP is our nation’s most powerful anti-hunger program. It improves food security, reduces poverty, and leads to better health outcomes, especially among children.

People In Rural New York State May Have A Harder Time Getting Food Stamps

Rural New Yorkers may have a more difficult time getting food stamps. During budget ceiling negotiations, Republicans in Congress pushed for major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. This change may greatly impact NY residents who live in areas where there aren't as many opportunities to work.

Some New Yorkers, who previously did not have to work to receive SNAP will now have to prove they have a job. New York is one of 18 states that does not require older SNAP recipients to work, but Republicans used debt ceiling negotiations to change that. New York currently offers a waiver for the federal government's "Able Bodied Adults without Dependents" requirement. But, now that waiver will go away.

The reason it may be harder for New Yorkers who need SNAP benefits to complete the new work requirements is based on many factors, including broadband connectivity issues, higher fuel costs, and fewer job opportunities. According to the Daily Yonder, employment opportunities in rural areas have not bounced back as strongly from the pandemic as they did in urban areas.

These 8 Counties Have The Most Food Stamp Recipients In New York State

Of the 2.8 million New Yorkers who receive food stamp benefits, these 8 counties had the most recipients in August 2023, which is the most up-to-date data from New York State.

8. Nassau County - 43,268

7. Rockland County - 47,63

6. Onondaga County- 67,256

5. Westchester County - 75,469

4. Monroe County - 106,612

3. Suffolk County - 107,768

2. Erie County - 143,716

1. New York City (includes all 5 boroughs) - 1,720,679

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