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Committee raises alarm over SNAP work rules and possible $2M-plus funding cut to county administration
Summary
Committee members discussed a projected drop in federal SNAP administrative reimbursement from 75% to 50% in late 2026 and new work requirements that began March 1, 2026; staff said the county may seek additional funds and is conducting outreach to about 860 households.
Genesis Ramos told the committee she heard at the NYSAC conference about an upcoming reduction in federal administrative reimbursement for SNAP from 75% to 50% in the fourth quarter of 2026, warning this "would be a $2 million plus hit a year." Ramos said counties are preparing for a potential shortfall and that this should be included in the 2027 budget.
Commissioner Lacey Trimble said the county "is hoping that it will be pushed to next year, but they are not sure. However, if it is not delayed, she will be asking for additional funds." Trimble also described new SNAP work requirements that took effect March 1, 2026 for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18–64, noted dependent age changed from under 18 to under 14, and estimated the county has about 860 households falling into the affected category. She said counties are working with Employment and Training to improve compliance; early compliance rates have been low — commonly around 20%–25% — and outreach remains labor-intensive.
Committee members pressed staff on outreach capacity, and Trimble said the department shifts staff to meet demand but continues to operate with several vacancies. The committee asked staff to monitor impacts closely and prepare for potential budget requests if federal reimbursement change proceeds.
