SNAP Update 2025: As we step into the summer of 2025, millions of American families are once again turning to vital food assistance programs to help cover the nutritional needs of children who rely on school lunches during the academic year. One of the most important of these initiatives is the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) program—now commonly known as SUN Bucks. This federal initiative was designed to ensure that children from low-income households continue receiving nourishing meals even during the school break. However, a startling development has drawn national attention: 13 U.S. states have opted out of the Summer EBT program in 2025, raising questions, concerns, and public outcry.
The decisions by these states impact millions of children and their families, many of whom depend on this extra support to avoid going hungry. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Summer EBT program in detail, identify which states have declined to participate, explain their reasons, and offer helpful resources for families looking for alternative food assistance. Whether you’re a parent, school administrator, social worker, or policy advocate, this article will provide the essential information and insights you need.
SNAP Update 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Summer EBT / SUN Bucks |
| Federal Benefit Amount | $120 per eligible child for summer months |
| States That Opted Out | Texas, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Indiana, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Iowa, Idaho, South Dakota, Wyoming, Alaska |
| Children Affected | Approx. 8 million eligible kids in participating states; millions left out in opt-out states |
| Official Site | USDA.gov/SummerEBT |
The Summer EBT 2025 update reveals both promise and problems in America’s ongoing efforts to address child hunger. While the program has the potential to make a meaningful difference, decisions by 13 states to opt out have serious ramifications for millions of children and families.
Fortunately, there are still resources and community programs that can help. It’s up to each of us—parents, educators, advocates, and neighbors—to stay informed, speak out, and support those affected. With continued advocacy, it’s possible that more states will come on board in future years, ensuring that no child has to go hungry during the summer months.
What Is the Summer EBT Program?
The Summer EBT program is a federally funded, state-administered initiative that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per eligible child to purchase groceries during the summer months. These benefits are delivered via an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card, which functions like a debit card and can be used at authorized retailers.
This program evolved from emergency efforts created during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many families struggled to feed their children amid school closures and economic instability. Encouraged by positive results, Congress authorized Summer EBT as a permanent program in 2024 through updates to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act.
Importantly, the program is designed not to replace but to complement existing summer food service sites, particularly helping children in rural or underserved communities who may not have easy access to meal distribution locations. It aims to reduce food insecurity, improve nutrition, and alleviate stress for caregivers.
Why Did Some States End the Program in 2025?
Despite the program’s clear benefits and broad support from public health experts, anti-hunger advocates, and many state governments, 13 states chose to opt out for various reasons. Here’s a closer look:
1. Administrative Costs & Logistical Concerns
State officials in places like Texas and Florida claimed the cost and complexity of implementing Summer EBT exceeded its value. Setting up distribution channels, managing data systems, and coordinating with school districts were cited as hurdles.
“We believe our current programs already support child nutrition effectively,” said a spokesperson from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, adding that duplicative efforts could create inefficiencies.
However, critics argue that this decision ignores the critical gaps in existing programs and forfeits substantial federal funding. In Texas alone, turning down Summer EBT meant rejecting nearly $450 million in federal aid that could have helped more than 3.8 million children.
2. Ideological Opposition to Federal Aid Expansion
Some governors, including those in South Dakota and Mississippi, cited philosophical concerns about expanding federal involvement in welfare. Instead, they favored localized solutions such as community food pantries and charitable organizations.
While private and nonprofit efforts are important, experts note that these programs often lack the scale or consistency of federal initiatives.
3. Technical and Data-Related Barriers
States like Idaho and Wyoming pointed to challenges with collecting, managing, and safeguarding personal data required for benefit distribution. These states emphasized the time and cost needed to build secure data systems capable of handling the program.
Nonetheless, many states that faced similar challenges successfully implemented Summer EBT by collaborating with school districts and leveraging existing SNAP infrastructure.
Which States Opted Out of Summer EBT in 2025?
As of May 2025, the following states declined participation in the Summer EBT program:
- Texas
- Florida
- Georgia
- Tennessee
- Indiana
- South Carolina
- Oklahoma
- Mississippi
- Iowa
- Idaho
- South Dakota
- Wyoming
- Alaska
Collectively, these 13 states are home to millions of low-income children who now lack access to this crucial support. According to estimates, over 8 million children may be impacted by this decision in 2025 alone.
What This Means for Families
For a single parent struggling to put food on the table during summer, the $120 benefit could mean additional groceries that last weeks. Without that support, families in opt-out states often face tough trade-offs: choosing between food and rent, or skipping meals to stretch limited budgets.
Here’s how families may be affected:
- Increased dependence on local food pantries and nonprofit services
- Greater financial strain due to rising grocery prices and inflation
- More children at risk of summer hunger, especially in isolated or rural areas
In Tennessee, food banks have publicly warned of increased pressure. “We are expecting demand to spike,” said a spokesperson for Second Harvest Food Bank, noting that summer is already one of their busiest times.
Practical Advice for Affected Families
If you’re living in a state that opted out of Summer EBT, you still have options. Here are five practical actions you can take to help your children access healthy meals this summer:
1. Find Local Summer Meal Sites
Use the USDA’s Meals for Kids Site Finder to locate free summer meal programs in your community:
https://www.fns.usda.gov/meals4kids
2. Apply for Other Nutrition Assistance Programs
Programs like SNAP, WIC, and school-based meal services may still be available:
https://www.benefits.gov
3. Connect with Your Local School District
Even in states that opted out, some school districts operate summer food programs. Contact your local school office or visit their website for more information.
4. Explore Community and Faith-Based Organizations
Nonprofits like Feeding America, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and local churches often run summer meal initiatives. These programs are especially active in urban and suburban areas.
5. Advocate for Change
Speak with your local and state representatives. Share your concerns and experiences. Many policy decisions are shaped by public feedback, and your voice can make a difference.
The Bigger Picture: Policy, Politics & Public Health
The decision by these 13 states not only affects families today but also raises broader concerns about public health, equity, and national priorities.
According to USDA data:
- Over 30 million students receive free or reduced-price lunches during the school year.
- But in summer, only about 1 in 6 of those children get meals through alternative programs.
- Summer EBT pilots showed a 33% drop in household food insecurity and improved nutritional outcomes.
“This program is a proven tool to fight hunger. Refusing it isn’t just shortsighted—it’s harmful,” said a USDA official following the 2025 announcements.
In contrast, states like Nebraska initially considered opting out but reversed their stance after public pressure. Governor Jim Pillen acknowledged that firsthand stories from struggling families helped sway his decision.
This highlights a crucial point: Public advocacy and awareness matter. When communities speak up, leaders listen—and policies can change for the better.
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FAQs About SNAP Update 2025
What is the difference between SNAP and Summer EBT?
SNAP offers monthly benefits to help low-income families purchase groceries. Summer EBT provides a one-time seasonal benefit to supplement summer nutrition for children.
Is Summer EBT a permanent program?
Yes. Since 2024, Summer EBT has been a permanent federally funded program under the USDA.
Can tribal nations participate independently?
Yes. Several tribal nations have the authority to administer Summer EBT even if their state government opts out. This ensures that Native communities can still access critical support.
How do I know if my child is eligible?
Eligibility typically includes children enrolled in free or reduced-price lunch programs or those whose families receive SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. For more details, visit USDA’s eligibility resource.
Where can I learn more about my state’s participation?
Visit https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer-ebt for the most updated state-by-state information and resources.
