USDA looks to tighten food stamp work requirements

The Department of Agriculture took the first step toward tightening work requirements for food stamps Thursday, inviting public comment on how the program could encourage self-sufficiency for able-bodied adults.

President Trump and Republicans all around the country have focused on more restrictive food stamp work requirements as a key part of a broader “welfare reform” effort. Although the current Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program already includes work requirements, conservatives blame former President Barack Obama for loosening the rules during the recession, resulting in more people receiving benefits even after the economy has improved.