Debt Ceiling Deal Impacts Food Stamps and Raises Concerns of Default.

The debt ceiling deal reached over the weekend includes new work requirements for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and cash welfare, but does not alter requirements for Medicaid. The modifications will increase work requirements for older adults who receive food stamps through SNAP, but will remove those barriers for veterans and homeless adults. The agreement also expands food stamp access for young adults transitioning out of the foster care system. The modifications may reduce the number of beneficiaries, but the new exemptions may also add people to food stamp rolls. The budgetary impact of these changes is unclear.