Between March and April 2025, a major discussion took place in the Texas state government regarding the future of SNAP benefits, commonly known as food stamps. While payments continue as scheduled, a new bill—Senate Bill 379 (SB 379)—has stirred debate.
The bill proposes limiting what recipients can buy with their SNAP benefits, aiming to steer low-income families toward healthier food choices. But not everyone agrees with the approach.
What Is SB 379 and What Does It Propose?
SB 379 was passed in the Texas Senate on April 1, 2025, by a vote of 22-8. The bill, however, still needs to pass the Texas House, get the governor’s approval, and be cleared by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees the national SNAP program.
The main goal of the bill is to ban SNAP users from buying unhealthy products such as sweets, junk food, and sugary drinks. Supporters of the bill, like Senator Mayes Middleton, argue that taxpayer money should only be used for nutritious foods that promote better health.
Why Is SB 379 Controversial?
While some see SB 379 as a step toward better public health, others believe it may harm people living in food deserts—areas where access to fresh, healthy food is limited. Senator Borris Miles pointed out that without proper infrastructure, it’s unfair to limit food choices when some people have no nearby supermarkets.
According to state data, 12% of Texans live in such areas. Critics say the bill does not solve deeper problems like the lack of grocery stores in rural and urban low-income neighborhoods.
If fully approved, SB 379 would take effect in September 2025, bringing new rules for what SNAP benefits can be used for across Texas.
April 2025 SNAP Payment Schedule in Texas
While the legislation is still under debate, SNAP payments in Texas for April 2025 continue as usual, based on the Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. For those certified before June 1, 2020, payments are made from the 1st to the 15th of each month. Here’s the April schedule:
- EDG ending in 0: April 1
- EDG ending in 1: April 3
- EDG ending in 2: April 5
- EDG ending in 3: April 6
- EDG ending in 4: April 7
- EDG ending in 5: April 9
- EDG ending in 6: April 11
- EDG ending in 7: April 12
- EDG ending in 8: April 13
- EDG ending in 9: April 15
2025 SNAP Benefit Amounts in Texas
For fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 to September 2025), SNAP benefit amounts include a 2.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) to help families manage rising food prices. Here’s the maximum monthly benefit based on household size:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
- For each extra person: +$220
These numbers apply to Texas and 47 other contiguous states.
Special Considerations for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP rules continue to be flexible for families that include elderly or disabled adults. These households do not have to meet work requirements, making it easier for them to get support. This ensures that vulnerable individuals maintain access to food without facing extra burdens.