The Trump administration announced it will supply only half of the usual Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to nearly 42 million recipients in November. This decision, announced as the U.S. government enters its 34th day of shutdown, could not be more timely. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) stated that it would utilize contingency funds to maintain SNAP benefits, despite the financial strain caused by the ongoing federal impasse.
We applaud Judge McConnell’s unambiguous ruling from the U.S. District Court in Rhode Island. He recently ruled that by shutting down the government, the administration cannot short SNAP. He followed that up with an order mandating the administration have contingency funds available by noon on Monday. President Donald Trump pledged to follow the order of the Justice Department. Above all else, he stressed that he was committed to finding the money.
“If we are given the appropriate legal direction by the Court, it will BE MY HONOR to provide the funding.” – Donald Trump
The SNAP program plays a key role in supporting millions of low-income individuals and families. It’s in deep trouble, with federal costs now approaching $8 billion per month. Money ran out for loans and grants officially on Saturday. In answer, dozens of states have issued emergency orders or executive actions to allow them to keep delivering aid. States like New York, Oregon, and Virginia are working to secure additional funds for their residents while navigating through the complexities of the shutdown.
As of this morning, at least seven states have reported that it will take days or even weeks for states to get benefits into the hands of qualified beneficiaries. California and Texas have turned these stadium parking lots into vaccination and distribution sites to meet urgent needs. This abrupt decision highlights the ongoing lack of clarity regarding the future of SNAP.
Scott Bessent, the state’s treasury secretary admitted that there are complicated processes in place that make securing emergency funding often difficult. He then acknowledged the procedural steps that need to be taken before benefits can be returned.
“There’s a process that has to be followed,” – Scott Bessent
The quickness in which SNAP funding has been used has pushed state governments to act in broad range—from scantly to aggressively. While some states are prepared to assist their residents quickly, others face bureaucratic hurdles that may delay assistance.
Judge McConnell lauded the administration’s speedy action. He praised their work to ensure SNAP funding remains readily available during this urgent time. He specifically mentioned the need to comply with judicial orders during today’s fluid crisis.
“The court greatly appreciates the president’s quick and definitive response to this court’s order and his desire to provide the necessary SNAP funding,” – Judge John McConnell
For millions of people, SNAP benefits are one of their only sources of food groceries. If we make cuts, we’ll be straining food security for millions of Americans for many years to come. As the federal government shutdown continues, SNAP’s future remains increasingly uncertain. Without these protections, vulnerable families would be left scrambling and anxious about their ability to meet their most immediate needs.