The Trump administration is under pressure as it faces deadlines set by federal judges regarding the funding of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The USDA had previously announced a halt on payments starting November 1 due to the ongoing government shutdown, putting millions of beneficiaries in a state of uncertainty.
The SNAP program is a vital part of the nation's food assistance structure, catering to about 42 million individuals—equivalent to 1 in 8 Americans—and costing approximately $8 billion monthly. Many recipients rely on this aid, and delays in benefits will impact families across the country, as many SNAP cards are typically reloaded early in the month.
A coalition of Democratic state attorneys generals from 25 states and D.C., alongside various cities and nonprofits, have challenged the decision to freeze payments. They argue that the administration has a legal obligation to maintain funding during the shutdown.
Recent rulings in Rhode Island and Massachusetts have indicated that the administration is required to continue SNAP funding, although it has been given discretion on whether to provide full or partial benefits for November. The USDA has a contingency fund of $5 billion for emergencies, and advocates argue the administration could also tap into a separate $23 billion fund.
The urgency for funding comes as advocates fear that without SNAP benefits, families will have to make tough decisions between purchasing food or paying for other necessities. Many states are prepared to offer alternative support, such as expedited funding for food banks to assist those at risk of food insecurity.
As the situation evolves, federal judges have requested progress updates by Monday, emphasizing the importance of honoring work requirement waivers and maintaining essential aid for struggling families.
