KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Tennessee is announcing new work requirements for certain adults receiving food assistance.
The Department of Human Services said the changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) impact able-bodied adults without dependents. Starting soon, adults aged 18 to 64 who don’t have a disability and don’t live with children under 14 may only get SNAP benefits for three months in a three-year period unless they work, volunteer or train at least 20 hours a week.
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“We want to ensure Tennesseans who may be impacted by these federal changes are fully informed and prepared to make any necessary adjustments,” commented TDHS Commissioner Clarence H. Carter. “Our priority is to support our customers with the resources they need to comply with the updated requirements while maintaining access to vital nutrition assistance.”
State officials say those who qualify for an exemption should submit documents through the One DHS Customer Portal (https://onedhs.tn.gov/csp) by October 31. Those who fall under the following categories are excluded from changes:
- Under the age of 18
- Are 65 years of age or older
- Are pregnant
- Work, volunteer, or participate in a job training program at least 80 hours a month
- Live with a child under 14
- Care for someone who is sick or disabled
- Get disability benefits like Social Security, SSI, or VA
- Have a health problem or temporary disability that keeps them from working
- Enrolled in school at least half-time
- In a drug or alcohol treatment program
- Receive unemployment benefits
These changes are part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was passed in July 2025. The bill also cut billions of dollars from the program. More information about the change can be found on TDHS’s website.
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Tennessee also recently applied to update the state’s SNAP program to exclude sodas and include some prepared foods. It is one of several states that have sought waivers to update their SNAP programs to restrict purchases of “junk food” like soft drinks and candy…