Politics & Government

SNAP Benefits May Change In Rhode Island Due To Government Shutdown

"Some changes to SNAP will happen November 1 and some may take effect the next time you renew your benefits," the state said.

New federal laws will impact Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits in Rhode Island.

"Some changes to SNAP will happen November 1 and some may take effect the next time you renew your benefits," the state of Rhode Island posted on its website.

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"Prior to November 1, 2025, you may get a Benefit Decision Notice from (the Department of Human Services) that shows changes to your SNAP benefits because of the new federal laws.

The notice may include information regarding:

Find out what's happening in Across Rhode Islandfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Changes to benefits due to immigration status
  • Changes to benefits due to how utility expenses are calculated
  • New work requirements needed to receive SNAP

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SNAP, formerly called food stamps, is the nation's largest program for fighting domestic hunger.

"Federally funded and state administered through our Department, we are committed to providing low-income individuals and families with resources to purchase food," according to the Rhode Island Department of Human Services.

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"Eligibility and benefit amounts are based on income, expenses, resources and the number of people living in a household," the department said

The federal government shutdown began on Oct. 1 after President Donald Trump and Congress failed to strike an agreement to keep government programs and services running. The Senate rejected the Republican's proposal, which fell short of the 60 votes needed to advance the bill.

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Democrats insisted the resolution reverse the Medicaid cuts in Trump's mega-bill passed this summer and extend tax credits for health insurance premiums through the marketplaces established by the Affordable Care Act.

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