Louisiana to Spend $42.3M More on SNAP as Costs Rise

Federal law changes will increase state's share of SNAP administrative and benefit costs, while work requirements expand

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:37pm

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Changes in federal law will require Louisiana to spend $42.3 million more on the SNAP program in the coming fiscal year, while food-stamp recipients cope with expanded work requirements and rising grocery costs. The new federal law also eliminated exemptions from work requirements for some SNAP recipients, which could lead to a loss of eligibility for some who cannot work or participate in volunteer or training activities for 80 hours a month.

Why it matters

The additional costs to the state will be part of the budget discussions in the legislative session, as Louisiana must now absorb a larger share of SNAP's administrative and benefit costs as federal contributions decrease. This shift could potentially grow to $151 million the following year if the state cannot lower its error rate in administering the program. The changes also raise concerns about potential loss of SNAP benefits for some recipients, which could strain food banks and the charitable food network.

The details

Under President Donald Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed last summer, Louisiana will absorb a larger share of SNAP's administrative and benefit costs as federal contributions decrease. The new federal law also eliminated exemptions from work requirements for people 55 to 64 years old who do not have dependents under the age of 14 and for veterans and homeless people. This could lead to a loss of eligibility for some who cannot work or participate in volunteer or training activities for 80 hours a month. More than 756,000 people in Louisiana, or 16% of the state's population, rely on SNAP benefits, with about 53% of them being children or elderly.

  • The changes will take effect three months into the state's next fiscal year starting July 1.
  • On Aug. 1, the vehicle office signed a $54 million contract to replace its 50-year-old computer system, which could help update SNAP recipient addresses.
  • The SNAP Fraud Unit recouped $3.4 million from recipients in 2025.

The players

Louisiana Division of Administration

The state agency that oversees the SNAP program in Louisiana.

Jordyn Mancuso

A vice president at the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.

Camille Conaway

The executive director for economic independence at the Louisiana Office of Economic Stability.

Darrell Malveaux

A 48-year-old single dad of three who has been receiving SNAP for three years.

Samantha Records

A former LSU student who has supported herself since she was 17 and relies on SNAP benefits.

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What they’re saying

“We did see an increase in demand in 2025 when SNAP benefits were reduced, as many households turned to food banks to help fill the gap.”

— Jordyn Mancuso, Vice President, Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank

“At 22 years old, I am responsible for my own rent, tuition and grocery bills. It has been a challenge. However, I can confidently say that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is the sole factor that has prevented my complete breakdown.”

— Samantha Records

“The last time I went shopping, I noticed that the prices are getting higher, especially on the produce. I do green smoothies, so when I'm buying the product, I'm noticing the price increase. It plays a big role.”

— Darrell Malveaux, SNAP Recipient

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.