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New Federal Requirements Go Into Effect For CalFresh Recipients
Certain adults must meet 20 hours of work, training or volunteer activity each week to keep CalFresh benefits, county officials said.
- On Monday, June 1, 2026, new federal work requirements took effect for most CalFresh recipients aged 18 to 64 who are Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents , mandating at least 20 hours weekly of work, training, or volunteer service to maintain benefits.
- Federal legislation known as the "Big Beautiful Bill" now requires these adults to provide proof of employment, education, or community service; exemptions apply for pregnant individuals, seniors over 64, and those with disabilities.
- State officials estimate more than 100,000 Californians must now meet these requirements to retain assistance, with local administrators in Kern County noting about 30,000 residents there could face new eligibility challenges.
- CAPK Food Bank administrator Kelly Lowery warned of increased pressure on food pantries, noting that losing CalFresh benefits could push more residents to seek charitable assistance amid high local unemployment.
- Residents can check renewal dates via the BenefitsCal portal or call the Access Customer Service Call Center at 1-866-262-9881 for eligibility questions; a webinar for organizations interested in volunteer opportunities is scheduled for Wednesday at 10:30 am.
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Leaning Left1Leaning Right2Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 17%
C 50%
R 33%
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