Now, the Trump administration has pushed U.S. states to stop giving low-income families the full value of food benefits. Specifically, they argue that these payments are “unauthorized.” This final rule will touch the lives of more than 42 million Americans who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Their only crime is experiencing a reduction in their benefits this month, as the government shutdown has gone to historic lengths.
SNAP, a critical countercyclical assistance program that expands in times of need, supports nearly one in eight Americans and costs about $9 billion per month. The abrupt turnabout on policy has left DC’s families in disbelief. Today, they find it nearly impossible to obtain the food they need as they only receive limited support. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a memo on Saturday stating that “States must immediately undo any steps taken to issue full SNAP benefits for November.”
The Trump administration is deep in the throes of its own controversial funding fight over SNAP. The story isn’t over yet, as the Supreme Court’s recent order in this emergency dispute demonstrates. This ruling gives the Trump administration the green light to withhold $4 billion earmarked for SNAP benefits. This decision has made that uncertainty much worse for millions of families who depend on the program.
State officials and food advocacy groups alike are concerned about the USDA’s directive. They contend that reducing access to food aid during a period of high inflation only increases food insecurity among those populations already most vulnerable. Many fear that the cuts could lead to increased hunger and health issues for families already struggling to make ends meet.
As of today, the government shutdown is officially the longest in U.S. history. The pandemic has had dual and devastating effects in all areas, including education and other public services. The uproar over SNAP funding has brought to the forefront the increased difficulties low-income people are facing during this time of political gridlock and budget war.