UPDATE: In a decisive move just announced today, the Trump administration will partially fund November’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for 42 million Americans, as the threat of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history looms large. Following rulings from federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the administration has opted to release only 50% of the available funds, leaving many vulnerable families at risk as the holiday season approaches.
Federal judges ruled against the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to withhold funds, stating that the agency must either fully cover November’s SNAP benefits, totaling $8 billion, or provide a partial payment from a $4.65 billion contingency fund by the end of the week. As of today, the Trump administration has chosen to proceed with the latter option, obligating funds to cover 50% of the current allotments for eligible households.
While this development ensures that millions of low-income families will receive some assistance, it raises serious concerns about the ongoing hunger crisis in the U.S. Critics argue that this partial funding is insufficient. Skye Perryman, president of Democracy Forward, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating,
“This should not have required a court order. We will continue to use the courts to protect the rights of people.”
Democratic Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell, who co-led the lawsuit, expressed frustration over the administration’s reluctance to fully fund SNAP. She noted,
“Never in the history of the SNAP program has funding ever been suspended or only partially funded.”
Her comments reflect a growing sentiment among lawmakers that the federal government must do more to support struggling families.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned the partial funding, describing it as “cruel and callous,” especially as Thanksgiving approaches. He stated,
“Trump’s decision to only send partial SNAP benefits as millions face hunger is unacceptable.”
Alongside him, Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair Patty Murray voiced her disapproval, insisting that the USDA has the authority to fully fund SNAP immediately. She criticized the administration’s approach, stating,
“Just now paying the bare minimum to partially fund SNAP is not enough.”
With hunger concerns mounting, numerous lawmakers are calling for immediate action to fully fund SNAP. Rep. Pramila Jayapal highlighted the precarious situation faced by millions, stressing that the current solution is merely a “temporary Band-Aid.” She demanded an end to the Republican shutdown to ensure comprehensive support for those in need.
As the government shutdown continues, the implications of this funding decision are dire. Families relying on SNAP are left wondering how they will afford food during the holidays. Congress is under pressure to act swiftly to ensure that no American goes hungry.
What happens next? As the situation evolves, stakeholders are closely monitoring the USDA’s actions and the potential for further legal challenges to secure full SNAP funding. Advocates are gearing up for continued advocacy, emphasizing that every moment counts for the millions depending on these critical benefits.
Stay tuned for the latest updates as this story develops.
