(Photo: Kampus Production)
The recently passed ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ is set to make several changes to government spending and social programs starting in 2026, which could affect some U.S. Veterans. While the law increases defense funding and support for active-duty families, it also modifies eligibility rules for food assistance and reduces Medicaid spending. Veterans’ organizations are watching closely to see how these changes will impact disabled and low-income Veterans.
One part of the bill expands work requirements for recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP. Adults aged 18 to 64 receiving SNAP or Medicaid will have to work, volunteer, attend training, or actively seek employment for at least 80 hours per month to keep benefits unless they qualify for exemptions like disability, caregiving, or schooling.
Although federal rules allow exemptions for individuals who are medically certified as unfit for work, a 100 percent disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs does not automatically qualify someone for that status under SNAP guidelines. This is because the VA disability rating system and the SNAP eligibility system use different criteria. States manage SNAP, and each state determines how medical exemptions are verified. A Veteran with a 100 percent VA disability rating may still be required to provide additional documentation, such as a doctor’s note or medical evaluation, to qualify for an exemption from work rules.
Some Veterans’ advocates have expressed concern that this could create extra hurdles for Disabled Veterans who depend on food assistance. They worry that Veterans might lose benefits simply due to administrative differences between federal and state programs. Lawmakers proposed amendments that would have automatically exempted fully Disabled Veterans from SNAP work requirements, but those changes were not included in the final bill.
The bill also includes significant reductions in Medicaid funding, which could affect access to healthcare services for Veterans and Military Families who rely on that program in addition to VA or TRICARE benefits. These cuts may lead to longer wait times or limited services in some areas, particularly for those who use Medicaid for home care, long-term care, or support for dependents with special needs.
At the same time, the bill increases DOD funding by $150 billion. A portion of this money will go toward housing stipends, child care, and facility upgrades for active-duty Service Members. These changes are not expected to affect Veterans directly, but may improve living conditions for those still serving.
Veterans and service organizations are advising individuals to stay informed and, if needed, seek help navigating benefit changes through local support offices or Veteran Service Organizations. While the long-term impact of the bill remains to be seen, awareness of the updates will be important for those who may be affected.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
