Monroe County officials warn residents of major SNAP eligibility changes taking effect March first

Rochester, New York – Monroe County Executive Adam J. Bello joined local officials and community partners to alert residents of Monroe County about major federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that could affect thousands of households. The Monroe County Department of Human Services administers SNAP locally and is preparing to guide recipients through new requirements that take effect March 1.

The changes stem from H.R. 1, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” passed by Congress in July 2025. Officials say the updated rules represent a significant shift in eligibility standards and require prompt action from those affected to avoid losing benefits.

New Work Requirements Take Effect March 1

Under the revised federal guidelines, individuals classified as Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents must meet new work and reporting requirements to continue receiving SNAP benefits. This group includes adults ages 18 to 64 who do not have children under 14 in their household and are physically and mentally able to work.

To remain eligible, individuals must work at least 20 hours per week or participate in qualifying activities such as job training or volunteer service. Those who do not meet these requirements and fail to report qualifying activity risk losing assistance.

County officials said detailed letters will be mailed this week to SNAP recipients who meet the ABAWD definition. The mailing will explain work requirements, reporting procedures, exemptions, and steps needed to maintain eligibility.

Public Meetings and Support Resources

To help residents understand the changes, Monroe County DHS will host a series of in-person town halls across the Rochester area. Meetings will take place Feb. 25 at Connected Communities Neighborhood Hub, March 4 at Adams Street R-Center, March 11 at Greece Town Hall, March 18 at Foodlink Farm, and March 28 at Webster Recreation Center. American Sign Language interpreting will be available at all events.

County Executive Bello emphasized the importance of outreach and awareness.

“Thousands of Monroe County residents—working families, seniors and young adults— will feel the impact of these federal changes to SNAP. Our responsibility is to make sure no one is caught off guard,” Bello said. “I urge anyone who receives SNAP to watch for a letter in the mail, attend one of our town halls, or contact our Department of Human Services (DHS) with questions.”

Joe Morelle also voiced concern about the impact of the policy changes.

“We won’t stand by as Republicans give tax breaks to their billionaire friends at the expense of our most vulnerable neighbors,” Morelle said. “Our community will never stop fighting for policies that ensure every family has access to healthy and affordable food.”

Malik D. Evans urged residents to act quickly.

“I urge those who rely on SNAP to find out what they need to do to preserve their benefits and to get help doing so as soon as possible,” Evans said. “We don’t want anyone going hungry.”

Community Impact and Food Assistance Resources

SNAP remains one of the most critical anti-hunger programs in the county. More than 104,000 Monroe County residents rely on SNAP each month, including over 37,000 children and 22,000 seniors.

Foodlink President and CEO Julia Tedesco warned that disruptions in benefits could strain food assistance networks.

“We cannot overstate the importance of SNAP as the nation’s most effective anti-poverty program,” Tedesco said. She noted that past disruptions caused a surge in requests for food assistance and stressed the organization’s commitment to preparing for increased demand.

Individuals and organizations seeking additional information about the SNAP changes can visit www.monroecounty.gov/snap-abawd-changes or call (585) 753-5386.

Residents seeking immediate food assistance can contact 211, visit MyWayfinder.org, or use Foodlink’s “Find Food” map to locate nearby resources.

TogetherNow President and CEO Laura Gustin encouraged residents to determine whether the new work rules apply to them and to develop a plan.

“At a time when many SNAP recipients are facing uncertainty, the most important first step is understanding whether ABAWD work requirements apply to you, and if they do, having a plan,” Gustin said.

Officials emphasize that SNAP recipients should review mailed notices, attend town halls, and seek guidance to ensure they remain eligible. County leaders and community partners say their shared goal is to help residents maintain access to food and stability during the transition.