NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Thousands of New Mexicans are reacting to a new change in how the state gives out food benefits which will soon require proof of work in order to keep those benefits.  Story continues below Investigation: Suspect terrorizing Nob Hill businesses off the streets, but for how long? Community: Does New Mexico have crows or ravens? Trending: Investigation underway after evidence of 10 to 20 human skulls found at southeastern New Mexico property News: New SNAP work requirements being implemented in New Mexico The new "proof of work" requirement affects 11,939 New Mexicans in specific counties and pueblos. New Mexico had been granted a waiver from the federal rule for more than a decade that's now expired. "But now, because of improving unemployment data, because unemployment is getting better here in New Mexico, because of that, then now this requirement is going to be enacted within New Mexico," said Eli Gallegos, SNAP program manager, New Mexico Health Care Authority.   The proof of work requirement will affect Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Eddy and Los Alamos counties along with San Ildefonso, Pojoaque, Santa Clara and Laguna pueblos.   Those who are between 18 and 54 years old, single and don't have dependents now have to prove they're working at least 80 hours a month to keep getting SNAP benefits.  That starts January 1 and affects people who are physically able to work, there are still some exceptions. For example, people who are homeless, pregnant or caring for a child may not face the new rule.  Advocacy groups are concerned some New Mexicans may not understand the new rules or could lose their benefits.  "It can have a hugely negative impact we know for a fact that it has no relationship helping families find new jobs. Taking away food assistance, if anything, make people's lives more precarious and more difficult to find good work," said Sovereign Hager, Legal Director New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty.   Advocates are emphasizing to SNAP recipients that if their benefits are taken away people can still make an appeal to the state's Health Care Authority. Those impacted should receive a letter in the mail. The state said it also has a work training program for those who need to meet the new work requirements work can be for pay, in trade for something other than money, or as a volunteer.