New Rules for CalFresh Recipients
Millions of Californians receiving food assistance through CalFresh, the state’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), will soon face new work and community engagement requirements. These changes are part of a federal overhaul of SNAP benefits that will take effect in June.
The changes follow last summer’s enactment of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which implemented stricter eligibility standards and expanded work rules. These legislative changes affected adults up to age 64 and tightened requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs). Exemptions for certain groups like veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and former foster youth were removed. More restrictions were also placed on some lawfully present immigrants.
Due to these changes, SNAP participation decreased by about 4.2 million recipients in a year on a national scale. California, which is home to about 5.1 million SNAP participants, could see a similar decline.
Updated Federal Work and Community Engagement Rules
Beginning June 1, California will implement updated federal work and community engagement rules for CalFresh recipients. Under these new guidelines, certain adults will need to meet work-related conditions to continue receiving benefits.
The rules generally apply to the following groups:
- Recipients between ages 18 and 64
- Those without a disability
- Those without a dependent child under age 14
Others, previously exempt, may now need to comply:
- Adults ages 55 to 64
- Parents with children aged 14 or older
- Veterans
- Individuals experiencing homelessness
- Foster care recipients or those in foster care at age 18
Exemptions remain for pregnant individuals, those with certain health conditions, caregivers for children under age 14, and those receiving disability-related benefits.
ABAWD Restrictions
Under federal law, ABAWD recipients can receive benefits for only three months within a three-year period unless they meet work participation standards or qualify for exemptions. To remain eligible, recipients typically must:
- Work an average of 20 hours per week
- Earn at least $217.50 weekly before taxes
- Volunteer or participate in qualifying education or job training programs
Those enrolled in educational or training programs must attend at least half time or complete 20 hours of class time each week.
County Exemptions
Some California counties are exempt from the new ABAWD work rules through October 31. These counties include Alpine, Colusa, Imperial, Merced, Monterey, Plumas, and Tulare, where residents may continue receiving CalFresh benefits beyond the standard three-month ABAWD limit without meeting work requirements.
Nationwide Drop in SNAP Enrollment
SNAP enrollment declined nationwide following the passage of the OBBBA. Participation remained above 42 million recipients through July 2025 but dropped by 3.4 million by January 2026. The most significant decline occurred between October and November 2025, where recipient numbers fell by over 1 million following the implementation of new standards.
Criticism from Governor Newsom
California Governor Gavin Newsom has been critical of the federal changes. Last June, Newsom referred to the legislation as cruel and costly. He emphasized that the bill represented an encroachment on states’ rights and criticized the expansion of federal bureaucracy.
“Big government is getting bigger,” Newsom warned, criticizing the efforts to dictate states’ moves and micromanage Americans. He called for common sense opposition to such measures.