Judges to Decide on SNAP Benefits Amid Government Shutdown

Sat Nov 01 2025 00:18:15 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A legal ruling may determine if SNAP food aid benefits for November will be replenished despite the ongoing government shutdown, impacting millions of Americans reliant on food assistance.

As the government shutdown continues, two federal judges are preparing to rule on whether President Donald Trump’s administration will be required to continue SNAP benefits for November. This decision could affect the grocery purchasing power of approximately 41 million Americans, as delays in reloading benefits are anticipated regardless of the ruling. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani expressed concern over halting benefits and highlighted the government's obligation to find funding solutions instead of simply suspending aid.

BOSTON (AP) — Two federal judges are expected to reach a decision by Friday on whether the Trump administration will need to continue replenishing SNAP food aid benefits for November during the ongoing government shutdown.

The ruling will directly impact approximately 41 million Americans who rely on these benefits for grocery purchases. Even if the court determines that the benefits should continue, many recipients may still experience delays in receiving the funds due to processing times.

During a hearing in Boston, Judge Indira Talwani raised questions about the legality of halting SNAP benefits, emphasizing that the government should explore equitable ways of managing funding crises instead of cutting off aid. If you don’t have money, you tighten your belt, she remarked, indicating her thoughts on the matter.

The government's lawyers contend that a contingency fund of approximately $5 billion cannot be legally used to finance SNAP, which costs about $8 billion monthly. Meanwhile, various states argue otherwise, pointing to additional available resources for funding these essential benefits.

The implications of this ruling extend beyond the immediate situation, as it could potentially set a nationwide precedent regarding SNAP benefits amidst financial strains at the federal level.

State officials and food banks have been preparing for potential challenges in providing food assistance, with many announcing efforts to expedite food aid while awaiting further court developments.

This situation comes against a backdrop of widespread concern for lower-income households facing tough decisions between basic needs, such as food, and other expenses during the shutdown.