Thousands Keep SNAP Benefits as Work Requirement Rule Delayed

Federal officials extend exemption from new SNAP work rules in multiple states

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Thousands of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients will continue receiving benefits after federal officials extended an exemption tied to new work requirements, delaying changes that had already begun impacting households in multiple states.

Why it matters

SNAP is the nation's largest anti-hunger program, supporting more than 40 million Americans with low- or no-income in buying groceries. The new work requirements under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act had begun affecting recipients in several states, raising concerns about potential loss of essential food assistance.

The details

On Thursday, Nevada and 15 other states were informed that, because of ongoing litigation, the exemption from work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) would remain in place temporarily. This means individuals who are now subject to the federal rules will continue to qualify for benefits under the previous rules through April 30.

  • The new work requirements were activated in Nevada on March 1, 2026.
  • The exemption extension was announced on March 4, 2026.

The players

Nevada Division of Social Services (DSS)

The state agency that administers SNAP benefits in Nevada.

Kelly Cantrelle

Deputy Administrator of the Nevada DSS.

Governor Lombardo

The Governor of Nevada who provided ongoing support to the state's SNAP program.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

The federal agency that oversees the SNAP program.

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What they’re saying

“This guidance will allow thousands of Nevadans to continue receiving essential food assistance through April.”

— Kelly Cantrelle, Deputy Administrator, Nevada Division of Social Services (KRNV)

“Our team, with the ongoing support of Governor Lombardo, worked around the clock to get these benefits into the hands of people who need them.”

— Kelly Cantrelle, Deputy Administrator, Nevada Division of Social Services (KRNV)

What’s next

The judge overseeing the ongoing litigation will decide whether to permanently extend the ABAWD work requirement exemption beyond April 30.

The takeaway

This delay in implementing the new SNAP work requirements highlights the potential impact on vulnerable populations who rely on the program for food assistance, and the importance of ensuring access to essential benefits during periods of economic uncertainty.