Oregon Eases SNAP Work Rules for Seven Rural Counties as Food Costs Rise and Caseloads Hit Record Levels

Starting February 1, 2026, some people who live in certain rural counties and receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits won’t have to meet the work requirements for the rest of 2026. SNAP Rules in 7 Rural Oregon Counties ChangedThe Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is taking steps to protect SNAP access in rural communities, starting February 1, specifically for people living in areas where employment services that help them meet the requirements are not readily available. Discretionary exemptions will be applied automatically each month beginning February 1, 2026, through December 2026. Oregon Discretionary SNAP Relief Granted Amidst Increasing DemandAbout 757,000 Oregon residents rely on SNAP every month- roughly 1 in 6-, including about 210,000 children and 130,000 seniors. Oregon’s SNAP caseload has surged in recent months due to economic pressures and rising food costs, and hit record levels in late 2025, straining program administration even as federal work rules tighten for some recipients.