Judges Could Decide on SNAP Food Aid as Top Trump Official Dismisses Call for Emergency Funding to Maintain Benefits – Live Coverage | U.S. Politics
Judges to Decide Fate of SNAP Food Aid as Government Shutdown Deadline Approaches
Two judges may soon rule on whether the Trump administration is obligated to restore SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) food aid benefits for November amid the ongoing government shutdown. The outcome could affect the grocery-buying ability of approximately one in eight Americans.
Even if the ruling favors beneficiaries, many may experience delays in reloading the debit cards they use for purchases, as this process typically takes one to two weeks. Consequently, it may be too late for funds to be available by the start of November.
During a hearing in Boston on a legal challenge from 25 states, federal judge Indira Talwani expressed skepticism towards the administration’s stance on suspending benefits. She indicated that if the government lacks funds, protocol should dictate a fair reduction process rather than a blanket suspension of SNAP benefits.
Judge Talwani suggested that the government should allocate emergency funds to SNAP, interpreting this as Congress’ intended action in the event of funding lapses. “If you don’t have money, you tighten your belt,” Talwani stated. “You can’t let everyone fall victim to political games.”
Meanwhile, government lawyers maintain that a $5 billion contingency fund cannot be legally utilized for SNAP, which costs around $8 billion a month. The plaintiff states argue otherwise, noting that an additional $23 billion exists in another federal account.
Talwani noted that her ruling would apply nationally, potentially challenging U.S. Supreme Court restrictions on such nationwide injunctions. A related hearing is scheduled for today, involving a coalition of cities and nonprofit organizations challenging similar issues.
Legal experts anticipate any ruling may quickly face appeals.
