SNAP Updates due to Federal Actions
Dear Neighbor,
Last week, Trump threatened to withhold federal funding from sanctuary cities beginning February 1. Threatening to cut off lifesaving federal funding and services is cruel and indefensible. And while similar previous attempts have been blocked by the courts, or rescinded in less than 24 hours, these threats are being taken seriously and are creating real concern in our communities.
In this newsletter, I want to share important updates and key dates related to federal government changes to the SNAP program, along with actions you can take to help protect your benefits.
On July 4, 2025, the federal government passed a law that makes significant changes to SNAP. Illinois, along with all other states, is required to implement these changes. If you are a SNAP recipient, be sure to take the following steps before February 1:
Update your information: Report any changes in your income or changes to your household to the Illinois Department of Human Services.
Review work requirements: Find out if you need to be connected to a job, volunteer opportunity or education and training program for at least 80 hours per month. If you qualify for an exemption, apply for one.
Stay informed! Get the latest updates and share this information with family and friends.
Before the federal budget bill, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) applied to adults ages 18-54 who had:
No kids under 18 living at home
No disabilities
Now, more people must meet or be exempt from work requirements, like:
People who are homeless
People with kids at home who are only 14 or older
Veterans
People with no disabilities, ages 55-64
On February 1, ABAWDs who do not meet or who are not exempt from work requirements may only get SNAP for 3 months in a 3-year period. And on May 1, ABAWDs who do not meet or who are not exempt from work requirements will lose benefits.
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IHDS) has sent initial notices of these federal changes along with a copy of an exemption form, to all current and new ABAWDs. IDHS will also continue to provide updates here: snapfederalimpact.illinois.gov.
As always, my office is here to help you navigate state programs and connect you to services and resources. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us at (773) 853-2570 or will@repguzzardi.com.
All my best,
Will
Office Closure
Our office will be closed on Monday, January 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We will reopen on Tuesday, January 20, for regular hours, from 9am to 5pm.
Chopin Park Winter Classes
Chopin Park winter classes run from January 5 through March 15. Online registration and more information on all classes can be found here. All classes take place at the park at 3420 N. Long Ave. For questions, you can also call the park at (773) 685-3247.
Logan Square Chamber of Commerce Town Hall
The Logan Square Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Advocacy Council are hosting a town hall to discuss advocacy and support for local, small businesses and to learn more about the City Budget and the Small Business Bill of Rights.
Date: Thursday, January 29
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Avondale Collective, 2800 N Milwaukee Ave