[ "After the disruptive U.S. government shutdown, federal SNAP assistance is once again available to low-income households. However, starting in December, many recipients will be required to meet new work conditions.", "SNAP, which averages around $190 in monthly benefits for 42 million participants nationwide, faced disruptions in early November when funding was uncertain during the shutdown. Some states managed to extend benefits temporarily, but many faced empty shelves and overcrowded food banks.", "By mid-November, benefits had been restored nationwide. Unfortunately, recipients will have to adhere to a new law mandating working, volunteering, or job training for at least 80 hours monthly unless specific exemptions apply. This change also expands restrictions to older adults and parents without children, tightening SNAP conditions significantly.", "Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has raised concerns about SNAP, suggesting links to fraud and suggesting potential changes to how often beneficiaries should reapply for assistance, which has compounded anxieties about the program's future.", "As December nears, the impact of these changes is expected to be significant, with a projected drop in the number of beneficiaries due to the tightening of work requirements." ]