The Trump administration will utilize emergency funds to distribute half of the usual monthly food stamp benefits to approximately 42 million Americans, as mandated by federal judges amid a prolonged government shutdown.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed in a court filing that it will tap into a $5.25 billion contingency fund to provide reduced Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This decision comes after federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island ruled that the administration must continue food aid during the shutdown, which began on October 1 and is now the longest in U.S. history. The USDA had previously warned that benefits would not be distributed starting November 1 due to the funding lapse.
The government shutdown has left many federal programs unfunded, with SNAP being a critical source of food assistance for low-income families. SNAP, commonly known as food stamps, typically costs about $8 billion per month and provides reloadable debit cards for grocery purchases. A family of four receives an average of $715 monthly, equating to less than $6 per person per day. The freeze on benefits threatened to exacerbate food insecurity across the nation.
In response to lawsuits from multiple states and advocacy groups, the judges ordered the Trump administration to use existing emergency funds to make at least partial payments. The rulings emphasized the legal obligation to maintain the program, citing the severe impact on vulnerable populations. States, which administer SNAP, were awaiting guidance from the USDA on how to distribute the reduced funds, with clarity expected by the end of Monday.
President Donald Trump had previously expressed willingness to fund SNAP, stating it would be his ‘honor’ and instructing government lawyers to seek legal avenues. However, he acknowledged potential delays, noting that even with immediate court guidance, payments might not go out promptly. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated in a CNN interview that benefits could be distributed as soon as Wednesday, but emphasized the need to follow proper procedures.
The partial funding means recipients will receive only half their normal allotment for November, which could strain household budgets and increase reliance on food banks. Some states, including those that sued the administration, had considered using state funds to bridge the gap, but the federal action provides a temporary solution. The reduced benefits are a stopgap measure until the shutdown is resolved or Congress approves new funding.
The ongoing shutdown has broader implications, affecting other government services and federal workers. The SNAP controversy highlights the political stalemate in Washington, with Democrats and Republicans at odds over budget priorities. As the shutdown continues, pressure mounts on both sides to reach a compromise, but no immediate resolution is in sight.
Looking ahead, the administration’s ability to manage the crisis will be closely watched, with potential legal and political repercussions. If the shutdown persists, further emergency measures may be needed, and the impact on public health and economy could deepen. For now, the partial SNAP funding offers a reprieve, but millions of Americans face uncertainty about future assistance.