Trump administration must continue food aid during shutdown, US judges say

Two federal judges have ruled that the Trump administration must continue funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the ongoing government shutdown, requiring the use of emergency contingency funds to prevent the suspension of food aid for approximately 42 million low-income Americans. The rulings were issued on Friday by U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani in Massachusetts and Judge John J. McConnell Jr. in Rhode Island, in response to lawsuits filed by states and advocacy groups. They determined that the administration is legally obligated to tap into a $5 billion contingency reserve to maintain SNAP payments, which provide crucial food assistance through reloadable debit cards. The government shutdown, now in its second month since October 1, has led to a lapse in appropriations, prompting the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to announce that November benefits would not be paid. However, the judges found that the contingency fund, established by Congress, can and must be used during such funding gaps to avoid interrupting essential services. In her decision, Judge Talwani stated that the administration “erred in concluding” that it was statutorily prohibited from using the contingency funds, emphasizing that Congress intended for SNAP benefits to continue even if appropriated funds are insufficient. She ordered the government to report back by Monday on whether it will authorize at least partial benefits for November. Similarly, Judge McConnell ordered the administration to make full SNAP payments by Monday or, if choosing not to use other available funds, to make a partial payment using the contingency funds by Wednesday. He highlighted that additional funds from the Agricultural Adjustment Act amendments could also be utilized to cover the full cost. President Donald Trump responded on Truth Social, stating that he has instructed government lawyers to seek clarification from the courts on how to legally fund SNAP and blaming Democrats for any delays. He expressed willingness to provide funding if given legal direction, akin to previous actions for military and law enforcement pay. The suspension of SNAP benefits threatened to exacerbate food insecurity and hunger among vulnerable populations, with states warning of negative health outcomes and increased public costs. Advocacy groups have condemned the move, calling it a “moral disgrace,” while some states had pledged to use their own funds but faced reimbursement uncertainties. Looking ahead, the administration’s compliance with the court orders will determine whether benefits are distributed promptly. The USDA has not commented on the rulings, but Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested that payments could be made as soon as Wednesday if the legal process is followed. The ongoing shutdown continues to strain various government services, with no immediate resolution in sight.