Monroe County Leaders to Discuss SNAP Work Rule Changes

New federal requirements take effect March 1 for some SNAP recipients

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Leaders from Monroe County, the City of Rochester, and local nonprofits are set to hold a press conference on Monday to discuss the new work requirements for some people receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. Starting March 1, able-bodied adults without dependents will need to work in order to continue receiving SNAP assistance due to changes in federal policy.

Why it matters

The new SNAP work rules could impact over 100,000 people in Monroe County who rely on the food assistance program, which accounts for about one in seven residents. Across the U.S., around 42 million people receive SNAP benefits, so these changes could have widespread effects on low-income individuals and families.

The details

County Executive Adam Bello, Mayor Malik Evans, and representatives from organizations like Foodlink, TogetherNow, and RochesterWorks will discuss the details of the new SNAP work requirements at the press conference. The rules apply to able-bodied adults between 18 and 64 who are not living with a child under 14. Those receiving disability benefits, pregnant, or unable to work due to a physical or mental condition are exempt from the new requirements.

  • The press conference is scheduled for Monday, February 23, 2026.
  • The new SNAP work requirements take effect on March 1, 2026.

The players

Adam Bello

Monroe County Executive.

Malik Evans

Mayor of the City of Rochester.

Foodlink

A local nonprofit organization that provides food assistance and other services.

TogetherNow

A local nonprofit that works to address poverty and food insecurity.

RochesterWorks

A local workforce development organization.

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What they’re saying

“The new SNAP work requirements could have a significant impact on low-income individuals and families in our community.”

— Adam Bello, Monroe County Executive (whec.com)

What’s next

The press conference on Monday will provide more details on how the new SNAP work rules will be implemented and what resources are available to help affected individuals.

The takeaway

The changes to SNAP work requirements highlight the ongoing challenges faced by low-income individuals and the need for coordinated efforts between government, nonprofits, and the community to ensure access to food assistance and other critical services.