Millions of Californians receiving food assistance through the state's CalFresh program could soon face stricter work requirements beginning June 1 as California implements new federal SNAP rules tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, according to guidance published by the California Department of Social Services.
The law, signed in 2025, expanded SNAP work requirements nationwide, raised the eligible work-age threshold to 64 and removed some exemptions previously available to veterans, homeless individuals and former foster youth.
California is now rolling out those federal changes beginning June 1.
Who's Affected Under the updated rules, some adults between ages 18 and 64 will be required to work, volunteer, attend school, or participate in job training programs to continue receiving benefits.
The changes mainly apply to recipients without disabilities and without dependent children under age 14.
