With the federal government shutdown now resolved, Alabama is once again issuing food assistance payments. However, new changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are now in effect — and they could make it harder for many Alabamians to continue qualifying for help with groceries.
The updates were included in major federal legislation passed over the summer. Nationally, funding for SNAP is expected to drop by nearly $186 billion over the next decade, meaning eligibility will narrow and more people will be required to reapply.
During the shutdown, some states issued partial payments while others sent nothing for nearly two weeks, leaving families confused about when their food benefits would be restored. Now, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has instructed all states — including Alabama — to fully enforce the new SNAP rules beginning November 1.
Who Will Now Need to Work to Keep Benefits?
A major change involves work requirements for what the government calls able-bodied adults without dependents. These individuals must now:
✔ Work at least 80 hours per month, or ✔ Be enrolled in higher education, or ✔ Participate in an approved job-training program
Without proof of one of these activities, benefits are limited to just three months within a three-year period.
This requirement now applies to adults ages 18–64. For Alabama residents, that is a significant expansion from the previous age limit of 54.
Exemptions have also been tightened:
Parents of Teens- Exempt only if teen is underage of 14. Veterans, Homeless, and young adults leaving foster care- Must meet work requirements.
One new exemption does apply to Tribal members and Native individuals as outlined in federal law.
According to Alabama’s Department of Human Resources, the state is currently updating its systems and notifying households whose benefits could be cut if they do not meet the new standards.
Changes for Immigrants in Alabama
New federal rules also narrow SNAP access for some lawful non-citizens in Alabama.
Eligible immigrant groups include:
U.S. citizens and nationals
Cuban and Haitian entrants
Compact of Free Association (COFA) citizens
Green Card holders must continue a five-year wait unless they are under 18 or connected to U.S. military service.
Some non-citizens — including refugees and those granted asylum — will lose benefits under the new policy, according to state memos circulating nationwide
States Will Pay the Price for Errors
Starting in fiscal year 2028, any state with an administrative SNAP error rate over 6% will face federal funding cuts. Alabama’s most recent error rate was above the new threshold, which could create future financial strain on the state’s budget.
Because the shutdown disrupted normal processing, experts warn that some of Alabama’s November cases may be counted as “errors,” making it harder to reach compliance.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that roughly 300,000 people nationwide – including thousands in Alabama – could see reductions or removal from the SNAP program as states tighten their rolls.
What Alabama SNAP Households Should Do Now
Watch your mail: DHR will send notices if you must reapply or prove work hours
Report changes quickly: New jobs, address changes, or education enrollment must be documented
Seek help early: Community food banks and churches expect increased demand during the transition
DOTHAN, Ala. — After nearly two years of heartbreak and waiting, a major development has finally been made in the murder case of Patrick Parrish. His mother, Rebecca Parrish, says she is beginning to feel a small sense of relief after one of the men accused in her son’s brutal death admitted guilt in court.
This past week, Richard Bishop Jr. entered a guilty plea to charges of murder and abuse of a corpse. As a result, he received a life sentence with the possibility of parole.
“For us, it brings a bit of closure knowing his sentencing is done,” Parrish shared. “It was incredibly difficult sitting in the courtroom with him, but we’ve been waiting for this case to move forward and to finally see an outcome.”
Despite the progress, Parrish expressed that she still wishes Bishop Jr. would never be allowed the chance at parole.
Parrish says that just one day before entering the plea, Bishop Jr. attempted to negotiate what she described as an unacceptable deal.
“He tried to make some plea the day before, and we wouldn’t agree to it,” she explained. “We thought we were going to have to go to trial and face a jury, but we’re thankful we didn’t — he likely would have ended up with this same sentence anyway.”
Bishop Jr. and his girlfriend, Courtney Ingram, were arrested in connection to Patrick’s death during the summer of 2024. In May of that year, police discovered Patrick’s body beneath his home on the 1300 block of Coe Dairy Road during a welfare check.
Investigators determined that Bishop Jr. struck Patrick in the head three times with a wrench after claiming Patrick had made inappropriate sexual advances toward Ingram at a party.
Inside the courtroom this week, Bishop Jr. offered an apology — but Parrish said she did not feel it was genuine.
“He turned around and said he was sorry, that it was an accident,” she recalled. “It’s not an accident when you beat my son to death and then dispose of his body the way he did.”
Patrick leaves behind a family who describes him as quiet and independent, but always willing to help others.
“There will always be a hole in our lives,” Parrish said. “It’s not right for a child to go before a parent.”
As for Ingram, she is expected to face a jury early next year.
“She should get the same as he got,” Parrish stated.
Parrish expressed gratitude to prosecutors, law enforcement, and Angel House for supporting her family throughout the past year and a half.
COFFEE COUNTY: Coffee County wrecked claims one life.
The victim has been identified by Coffee County Coroner Arnold Woodham as 79-year-old Vernon James Rathbone, of Enterprise.
The head-on crash occurred shortly after 4:00 p.m. on Friday in the 7000 block of Highway 51, near County Road 154, in New Brockton. The road was closed for over an hour while ALEA – Troopers investigated the accident.
The driver of the second vehicle, a woman from New Brockton, was airlifted from the scene to a local hospital. Her condition is currently unknown.
DOTHAN, Ala. — Houston Academy proudly celebrated a milestone achievement this week as two of its standout student-athletes, Emily Adams and Emily Maddox, officially signed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. Adams will attend Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns, while Maddox will join the University of South Alabama.
The event, attended by family members, faculty, coaches, and classmates, recognized not only their athletic excellence but also their dedication in the classroom. Both young women have balanced rigorous academic schedules with a demanding athletic workload—earning praise from teachers, coaches, and the HA community.
“It’s a special day for both families and for the HA family as well,” began one of the opening remarks. “We get to celebrate years of hard work and dedication to a sport that these young women love and at which they truly excel.”
Faculty and staff described Emily Adams as “a joy to work with in the classroom,” known for her positivity, humility, and quiet leadership. “Her work ethic and attitude set her apart,” one teacher noted. “She approaches every challenge with determination and grace, and she naturally guides others to reach a higher level.”
Adams has been a vital member of both the volleyball and softball programs, earning respect from her peers and coaches alike. “She’s focused yet humble,” said one staff member. “Louisiana Lafayette is getting not only a phenomenal athlete but a mature, responsible, and capable student who will enrich their campus.”
Emily Maddox, who will take her talents to South Alabama, has been equally celebrated for her commitment, leadership, and love for the game. Known for her fierce competitiveness on the field and her positive spirit off of it, Maddox has set a powerful example for her teammates. Coaches describe her as “driven, dependable, and the kind of athlete who gives 110% no matter the circumstance.” Her determination, teamwork, and composure have made her a cornerstone of Houston Academy athletics, and her next chapter at South Alabama promises even greater achievements.
The same spirit of excellence extends through both student-athletes, who have been leaders on and off the field—role models whose sportsmanship and academic commitment reflect the best of Houston Academy’s values.
HA Athletic Director Jerry Brown praised both students during the ceremony. “When two students sign Division I college scholarships, it’s a major milestone for them and for the school they represent,” he said. “Only about 1.6% of softball players ever get the opportunity to compete at the Division I level. Having two from the same team is truly remarkable.”
Brown reflected on first meeting the pair as ninth graders: “They were small, young, and already leading the team. From that moment, I knew they were special. Their time here has set a standard for what commitment and teamwork look like.”
As they prepare to close one chapter and begin another, both athletes are reminded that their journey is far from over. “Your mission isn’t complete yet,” Brown added with a smile. “We’re still looking for that 5A state championship—and we know you’ll make us proud.”
Houston Academy congratulates Emily Adams and Emily Maddox for their incredible accomplishments, both on the field and in the classroom. The entire Raider community wishes them continued success as they carry the Houston Academy legacy forward into their collegiate careers.
DOTHAN: 9:57 PM Dothan 911 dispatched a structure fire at 1604 Hodgesville Road, Garden Estates Trailer Park.
Reports to Dothan 911 smoke and flames visible from air conditioner units.
Dothan Fire, Pilcher Ambulance and Dothan Police are responding.
UPDATED @ 10:03 PM
Dothan Fire Engine Company 2 ( Lakewood ) and Rehab 2 ( Lakewood ) have arrived on the scene. Engine Company 2 reports nothing visible, all occupants are outside, Instructed all incoming units stand stand by on level 1 staging – which means stand by, prepared to enter but wait until Engine Company 2 confirms a structure fire.
Dothan Fire Engine 1 ( Central ) and Battalion Chief Ash have arrived.
10:05 PM Engine 2 reports no fire, short in electrical system. All fire engine companies can return to service. Engine 2 will remain on scene for a few more minutes.
Come on Down to the 4 way stop on South State Hwy 109 and 605 . We have the finest Green Boiled Peanuts around. I will be here until I sell out