NASHVILLE, Tenn. — More than 100,000 Tennesseans are no longer receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, according to newly released federal data showing a significant decline in participation across the state.

SNAP, formerly known as the food stamp program, provides grocery assistance to low-income individuals and families. Tennessee remains one of the states with the highest levels of SNAP participation, but enrollment has dropped sharply over the past year. Federal figures indicate more than 690,000 Tennesseans were receiving benefits in 2025, but participation has since fallen substantially.

The decrease mirrors a national trend. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported that approximately 4.3 million fewer Americans were receiving SNAP benefits between January 2025 and January 2026. Analysts attribute much of the decline to changes in eligibility requirements and expanded work requirements implemented under federal legislation approved in 2025.

Among the changes are expanded work requirements affecting more adults and modifications to exemptions that previously allowed certain groups to qualify for assistance. Federal officials have also pointed to economic growth and increased wages as contributing factors, although anti-hunger advocates argue that many families continue to struggle with rising food costs despite improvements in employment figures.

The reduction in SNAP enrollment comes as food banks and charitable organizations across Tennessee continue reporting strong demand for food assistance. Advocates have expressed concern that some households losing benefits may still face challenges affording groceries and other necessities.

SNAP remains one of the largest federal assistance programs in Tennessee, providing billions of dollars annually to help eligible residents purchase food. State officials continue to administer the program through the Tennessee Department of Human Services while eligibility rules are set at the federal level.