The Trump administration is under pressure as it faces a deadline to inform two federal judges about its compliance with court orders concerning the funding of SNAP, a critical food assistance program, amid an ongoing government shutdown.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced plans to freeze payments to SNAP starting November 1, citing funding shortages caused by the shutdown. SNAP provides assistance to nearly 42 million Americans, or about 1 in 8 citizens, costing roughly $8 billion monthly.
This situation has led to growing concerns over how millions will sustain their households, particularly as many beneficiaries rely on monthly recharges to their SNAP cards at the beginning of the month. The court's ruling suggests that payments may still face delays regardless of the outcome due to the timing of fund reloading in various states.
Legal challenges have arisen from Democratic attorneys general from 25 states and the District of Columbia, asserting that the administration must fulfill its legal commitment to maintain SNAP funding in their respective jurisdictions.
Recent decisions by judges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts mandate that the administration must ensure SNAP funding continues. They allowed for flexibility in determining whether the program will be funded fully or partially for November.
Judge John J. McConnell of Providence highlighted that contingency funds must be utilized and requested an update by Monday, indicating that the USDA is also under scrutiny for terminating work requirement waivers during the shutdown.
In Boston, Judge Indira Talwani ruled the administration's decision to suspend SNAP as unlawful, further pushing the federal government to clarify whether it will employ emergency reserves or contingency funds for November payments.
With many states moving forward with contingency plans for food banks and rationing benefits, the impact of halting SNAP funds would compel families to make difficult choices between essential groceries and other financial obligations. The stakes are high, as families try to navigate potential cuts to an already strained safety net.
To qualify for SNAP, a four-person household's net income must be under the federal poverty line, which is currently about $32,000 a year.
