House Republicans recently adopted their budget resolution, marking the first step toward a possible large-scale reduction of SNAP benefits for millions of Americans. While the impact has yet to be felt, it could result in significant changes for some households locally.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) plays a vital role in reducing food insecurity, providing essential support to over 41 million Americans, or 12.3% of the population, each month. A new analysis from TraceOne explores which states rely most heavily on SNAP benefits, analyzing the latest USDA and Census Bureau data to uncover the role of food assistance across the country.

Tennessee's data shows that 12.2% of households are enrolled in SNAP, with 10.0% of individuals receiving benefits. This means that 87.8% of households in the Volunteer State do not receive SNAP benefits, but the households that do, get an average of $382 per month. Individuals enrolled in SNAP in Tennessee receive an average of $190 monthly. The state’s poverty rate stands at 14%, according to the study’s calculations. Overall, Tennessee ranks 33rd in terms of its reliance on food assistance.

New Mexico is the most dependent state on SNAP, with 21.3% of individuals enrolled. The share of households receiving SNAP funds in New Mexico totals 28.2%, which is 16% more than Tennessee households. On average, individuals in New Mexico receive $190 monthly, while households get $354 per month. New Mexico has a poverty rate of 17.8%, which is 3.8% higher than Tennessee’s rate.

Utah has the fewest number of people enrolled in the SNAP program. There, only 5% of individuals are receiving SNAP benefits, and 7.3% of households are enrolled in the program. Individuals in Utah receive an average of $188, while households receive an average of $375 per month. Utah’s poverty rate of 9% is 5% lower than Tennessee’s.

The full report covers all 50 states, with a detailed breakdown of SNAP participation rates, average monthly benefits, total annual benefits, poverty rates, and more. For more information, visit the TraceOne report: https://www.traceone.com/resources/plm-compliance-blog/states-that-depend-most-on-food-assistance