Proposed SNAP Retail Restrictions Could Mean Less Options for Participants
Following the largest cut to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in program history, proposed regulations could mean fewer options on where beneficiaries are able to purchase food.
Across America, there are over 250,000 retailers who are certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to accept SNAP payments. To become eligible, retailers from large supermarket chains to local grocers must meet several criteria, including what types of food they sell.
In 2014, Congress passed a Farm Bill which included a provision for SNAP retailers to increase the amount and variety of staple foods they must stock. However, no regulations were finalized to implement these provisions.
After a decade of both public and Congressional opposition and during a time of historic tumult for SNAP, the Trump USDA published a proposed rule in September 2025 with a lengthy framework and new definitions.
MAZON submitted a public comment to the Federal Register relaying our concerns about these unnecessary updates to SNAP standards that will increase confusion among retailers, state SNAP administrators, and beneficiaries.
Why is this proposed rule potentially harmful?
If implemented, this rule would more than double the required varieties of staple foods retailers must stock. This may be unworkable for SNAP retailers, especially small grocers with less refrigeration capacity, storage, and shelf space. To comply, retailers may see higher utility costs, greater food waste, and increased distribution expenses.
New costs will be felt most by retailers located in rural or remote areas, especially where they may be the only available SNAP retailer for miles. Inevitably, costs will be passed on to consumers who may see higher prices for food. If a retailer does not comply or withdraws from SNAP, beneficiaries will have to travel farther to reach the next closest SNAP-authorized store.
Should a SNAP retailer be found to be out of compliance with these new requirements, there is a risk that recipients who used their benefits at that retailer can also be charged with a program violation.
Calling for a stop to the attacks on SNAP
The timing of this proposed rule comes on the heels of massive program changes and an estimated $187 billion cut to SNAP over the next decade. USDA should be focusing on supporting retailers serving their communities rather than creating additional barriers that could jeopardize food assistance for hungry families.
MAZON will continue to monitor USDA’s proposed rule and advocate for retailer flexibility and technical assistance if adopted.