More than 7,000 documented non-citizens in Wisconsin will lose eligibility for FoodShare, the state’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, effective July 1, under changes in federal law.
This restriction stems from provisions in President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which limit SNAP benefits to U.S. citizens and certain lawful permanent residents, closing loopholes that previously allowed broader non-citizen access in Wisconsin.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Tiffany welcomed the change and shared his broader welfare reform agenda on X:
Supporters argue that restricting SNAP benefits to citizens and certain lawful residents is a practical policy that saves money, reduces fraud, and prioritizes limited resources for U.S. citizens, especially in a state already grappling with welfare program integrity concerns, as in Minnesota’s massive social-services scandals. Removing ineligible recipients eases pressure on the program, which serves nearly 700,000 Wisconsinites, and ensures benefits intended for American families are not diverted.
The move aligns with federal efforts to enforce immigration law and discourage reliance on public assistance as an incentive for illegal immigration. Tiffany’s pledge signals that, under his leadership, Wisconsin would audit programs, tighten work requirements, and safeguard FoodShare for those in genuine need.
