Oregon — Oregon has begun applying Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work requirements statewide following the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s decision to end the state’s work-rule waivers in November 2025.
The change took effect Dec. 1, expanding work requirements from six counties to all counties across Oregon. State officials estimate the shift currently affects approximately 37,000 people, with the number expected to grow over time.
The policy change is required under a new federal law passed on July 4, 2025, along with updated guidance from the USDA. As a result, work rules for certain adults receiving SNAP food benefits now apply statewide. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has notified all individuals affected by the change.
Previously, Oregon had waived Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) work requirements in 30 of its 36 counties and across all Tribal lands, citing limited job opportunities. Those waivers had been approved through Dec. 31, 2025, but were terminated early by the USDA.
The new federal law also expands who must comply with ABAWD work rules. Requirements now apply to adults ages 18 to 64 who do not have children under age 14 in their SNAP household. Under prior rules, work requirements applied only to adults up to age 54 and households without children under age 18.
The updated rules also remove exemptions for some groups that were previously excluded, including veterans, people who were formerly in foster care, and individuals experiencing homelessness.
At the same time, a new exemption has been added for enrolled members of federally recognized Tribes, as well as individuals with a parent or grandparent who is an enrolled Tribal member. In addition, people living on certain waived Tribal lands remain exempt from work requirements regardless of enrollment status. These areas include reservations and trust lands of the Burns Paiute Tribe, Coquille Indian Tribe, Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, Klamath Tribes, and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.
Under the rules, individuals with ABAWD status who do not qualify for an exemption must work or participate in approved work or training activities for at least 80 hours per month. Activities may be paid or unpaid and can include job training or work performed in exchange for shelter.
Those who fail to meet the requirement are limited to receiving SNAP benefits for three months within a 36-month period. In Oregon, the current three-year period runs through Dec. 31, 2027. Benefits may be restored if an individual later qualifies for an exemption or meets work requirements.
ODHS is urging people who believe they may be affected to contact the agency’s ABAWD Unit for assistance. The unit can help determine exemption eligibility, confirm whether work requirements are already being met, and connect individuals with the Oregon Employment Department to develop a qualifying work or training plan. ODHS and the Oregon Employment Department are coordinating services to help SNAP recipients comply with the new requirements.
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