Thousands in South Carolina Could Lose SNAP Benefits: Thousands in South Carolina could lose SNAP benefits under GOP Medicaid cuts, as part of a sweeping federal proposal dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” If enacted, this legislation will result in widespread reductions to food assistance and healthcare coverage for low-income families, seniors, veterans, and even working adults across the Palmetto State. For many residents, this isn’t just about politics—it’s about survival. We’re talking groceries, prescriptions, and access to basic healthcare. In this article, we break it down in plain English, combining reliable data, local context, and actionable advice, so you understand exactly what’s going on and what steps you can take.
Thousands in South Carolina Could Lose SNAP Benefits
The “One Big Beautiful Bill” may be pitched as budget reform, but for over 96,000 South Carolinians, it threatens real, immediate harm—from hunger to bankruptcy to untreated illness. If you or someone you love relies on SNAP or Medicaid, don’t wait. Get informed. Get your paperwork together. Reach out for help. And raise your voice. Because in South Carolina, community isn’t just a word—it’s how we survive.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Households at Risk (Charleston County) | 29,922 families currently receiving SNAP benefits |
| Total SC Residents Affected | Over 96,000 people could lose or see reduced SNAP/Medicaid benefits |
| Age Expansion in Work Mandates | New rules increase work requirements from age 54 to 64 |
| Estimated National Impact | 4.7 million fewer SNAP participants, up to 6 million off Medicaid |
| Economic Fallout | Potential loss of 1.22 million jobs and $154B in GDP nationwide (Commonwealth Fund) |
| Federal Budget Cuts Proposed | $295B from SNAP and $863B from Medicaid over 10 years |
| State-Level Financial Burden | SC may have to cover 5–15% of SNAP costs going forward |
Understanding SNAP and Medicaid in South Carolina
SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, provides monthly benefits to help low-income households buy food. In South Carolina, about 12.8% of the population relies on SNAP. The average recipient gets just over $170 per month, depending on family size and income. These benefits are often managed through EBT cards—commonly called “food stamps.”
Medicaid, on the other hand, provides health insurance for eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. It’s a joint federal-state program, meaning that changes to federal funding or rules have a direct effect on state budgets and services.
Together, these programs form the backbone of the social safety net in South Carolina, especially in rural areas and urban neighborhoods where job access, transportation, and affordable healthcare are already limited.
What’s Inside the “One Big Beautiful Bill”?
The “One Big Beautiful Bill” is a proposed Republican-led budget reform that aims to dramatically reduce federal spending on entitlement programs. Here’s what the bill specifically proposes in relation to SNAP and Medicaid:
- $295 billion in SNAP cuts over 10 years
- $863 billion in Medicaid reductions, shifting much of the cost and administration to states
- Expanding SNAP work requirements to ages 18–64, up from the previous limit of 18–54
- Requiring states to contribute 5–15% of SNAP benefits, a cost previously covered by the federal government
- Converting Medicaid funding to block grants, which allow less flexibility in times of economic or health crises
Supporters of the bill argue that these cuts will reduce fraud, encourage work, and balance the federal budget. But critics point out that the majority of SNAP and Medicaid recipients already work, are elderly, disabled, or caring for others—and these cuts would do more harm than good.
What Does This Mean for South Carolina Residents?
If passed, the legislation could result in:
- 27,000 parents in SC losing SNAP benefits entirely
- An additional 69,000 individuals seeing reduced or interrupted food assistance
- Nearly 17,000 older adults aged 55–64 losing benefits if unable to meet new work mandates
- $400 million in new costs that the state government would need to cover, likely leading to cuts in other areas or tax increases
For many in South Carolina, especially those in Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, and rural counties, this could trigger a public health and economic emergency. South Carolina’s poverty rate—at nearly 15.4%, above the national average—means the state is more vulnerable to reductions in federal aid.
Real-World Example: Angela’s Story
Angela, 62, lives in Columbia and works 16 hours per week as a school bus monitor. Her income is just above the federal poverty level, but she relies on SNAP to fill her grocery cart each month.
Under the new bill, Angela may have to work at least 20 hours per week to continue receiving benefits. But health issues limit how many hours she can handle. “I’m not lazy,” she says. “I just can’t do more without risking a fall or a hospital visit. Now they’re saying no work, no food?”
Her story is just one of thousands across South Carolina.
The Strain on Nonprofits and Community Organizations
Local organizations like Harvest Hope Food Bank, Lowcountry Food Bank, and Trident United Way are already preparing for a surge in demand. They expect food pantry visits to rise by 25–30% if the bill becomes law.
According to Kathy Wright, Director of Outreach at Lowcountry Food Bank:
“We’re already stretched thin. If SNAP gets gutted, we’ll have seniors and families lining up around the block. But we don’t have the resources to feed everyone.”
Faith-based groups, schools, and health clinics will also feel the strain. The system wasn’t built to replace government support—it was designed to supplement it.
What Can You Do Right Now About Thousands in South Carolina Could Lose SNAP Benefits?
1. Know Your Current Benefits
Check your status through the SC DSS SNAP Portal or call 1-800-616-1309. Make sure your contact information and employment details are up to date.
2. Prepare Documentation
Gather pay stubs, proof of job search, medical records, and dependent care paperwork. New requirements may demand extra verification.
3. Apply for Exemptions
If you’re:
- Pregnant
- Medically unable to work
- Caring for a child under 6
- Enrolled in training or education programs
You may qualify for work requirement exemptions.
4. Connect with Support Services
Reach out to community centers, food banks, legal aid offices, and job training programs. Many offer free help with paperwork and appeals.
5. Speak Up
Contact your local representatives. Use this legislator search tool to find your state senator or house rep. Tell them how these changes would affect your life or your community.
Economic Fallout: The Bigger Picture
Experts from the Commonwealth Fund estimate that national implementation of the bill could cause:
- Over 1.22 million jobs lost
- A reduction in state GDPs by over $154 billion
- Fewer dollars circulating in local businesses and services
Why? Because every SNAP dollar spent generates about $1.50 in economic activity, especially in local grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and transportation services. When people lose benefits, they stop spending, and businesses suffer.
How SC Compares to Other States?
South Carolina’s reliance on federal support is relatively high compared to many other states. Here’s a snapshot:
| State | % of Population on SNAP | SNAP Work Mandate Expansion Impact |
|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | 12.8% | 96,000 people |
| Georgia | 11.5% | 132,000 people |
| North Carolina | 13.2% | 140,000 people |
| Florida | 12.3% | 400,000+ people |
States with higher poverty rates and more rural areas, like South Carolina, are disproportionately affected by across-the-board federal cuts.
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