Federal funding changes for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program take effect today, shifting a larger share of program costs to New York while leaving monthly benefits unchanged for recipients.

Under the changes, SNAP recipients will not see a reduction in benefits and will not receive less money on their EBT cards.

However, the federal government's share of SNAP costs will drop from 50% to 25%, while New York's share will increase from 50% to 75%.

Critics say the funding shift could leave the SNAP system with fewer resources to help eligible residents apply for and receive benefits.

State and local agencies will continue administering the program, but advocates warn the increased state burden could affect support services for recipients.