CalFresh eligibility is changing. Here's what you need to know
Key takeaways
- Some Californians will now have to clear an additional hurdle to maintain their eligibility for food assistance, courtesy of Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
- Top California health officials warn that federal cuts will be a devastating blow to public health, even as the state seeks to mitigate the damage.
- At least 20 hours per week, or 80 hours per month, of qualifying activities are required.
A 20-year-old single mother and student shops for groceries using gift cards supplied by Riverside City College in November. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) By Karen Garcia Staff Writer Follow June 4, 2026 3 AM PT 4 min Click here to listen to this article Share via Close extra sharing options Email Facebook X Linked In Threads Reddit Whats App Copy Link URL Copied! Print 0:00 0:00 1x This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here.
Some Californians will now have to clear an additional hurdle to maintain their eligibility for food assistance, courtesy of Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Starting June 1, many CalFresh recipients who are between the ages of 18 and 64 and do not have a disability will have to meet an additional work or community engagement requirement to be eligible for the program, which provides monthly food benefits to low-income individuals and families.