Millions of households in the United States could be forced to go through a new process to retain food assistance.
The move comes at a time of uncertainty about the program's future and after weeks of federal disruptions.
The announcement was made just minutes ago and is already causing concern among low-income families who depend on the monthly amount of the cupfood items to cover part of the basic expenses.
The new demand announced by Brooke Rollins
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that the Trump administration will require all participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to reapply for their benefits.
Speaking to Newsmax, Rollins said he wants “everyone to reapply for their benefits, to ensure that those receiving taxpayer-funded aid, such as cup"Food assistance programs, know that these are vulnerable people who cannot survive without them."
The official did not explain when the process will open, what documents will be needed, or what will happen to those who fail to complete the process on time.
This change comes after weeks of instability.
The decision comes amid a complex context. In recent weeks, several states have faced delays in SNAP payments due to the federal government shutdown and legal disputes over the obligation to issue full amounts.
Although the government recently reopened, not all beneficiaries have received their November payments. Some jurisdictions deposited partial payments, while others deposited none at all, leading to increased demand at food banks.
States with unequal situations
According to data reviewed by local media, at least 19 states have managed to advance part of the monthly payment to certain households, but others remain on hold. South Carolina and West Virginia are among those that had not been able to issue a single payment before the Supreme Court intervened.
That delay, coupled with a lack of clear instructions, led several governors to authorize state funds to prevent the collapse of food assistance.
The impact of the new requirement
SNAP serves approximately 42 million people nationwide. Each beneficiary receives around $190 per month on average, an amount that doesn't cover the full cost of food. Any disruption or additional paperwork could leave thousands of families with no time to wait.
Community organizations fear that the requirement to reapply for the benefit will cause even greater delays, especially in states with overloaded computer systems or offices that are still operating with reduced staff.
Anticipation for the coming hours
Trump's statement opens a new chapter in the handling of the program. It remains to be seen whether there will be a staggered schedule, a transition period, or if benefits will be suspended during the re-enrollment process.
State governments are awaiting answers from the Department of Agriculture, which has not specified when official instructions will be circulated.