SANTA FE — New federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are set to take effect in New Mexico beginning this summer, requiring certain recipients to document at least 80 hours per month of qualifying activity to maintain benefits.
The requirement, equivalent to roughly 20 hours per week, applies primarily to able-bodied adults without dependents and can be met through a combination of work, approved education or job training programs, or participation in state-administered employment and training initiatives.
At the same time, significant exemptions remain in place. Individuals are not subject to the requirement if they are caring for a child under 14, are 65 or older, have a qualifying disability, are pregnant, or are already meeting similar work requirements through other assistance programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
State officials have indicated the updated requirements will largely be enforced during regular recertification periods, when recipients must verify continued eligibility for benefits.
Supporters of the policy say the changes are intended to strengthen program integrity while maintaining support for vulnerable populations.
“This is about encouraging those who can work to do so, so we can protect taxpayer dollars and preserve SNAP for those New Mexico families who really need it,” said Vince Torres, executive director of the America First Policy Institute’s New Mexico chapter.
New Mexico has the highest SNAP participation rate in the country, with about 21 percent of residents receiving benefits, according to USDA data. The state’s Human Services Department has said it is working to notify recipients of the changes and connect eligible individuals with approved work and training opportunities.
