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Dozens of States Sue Trump Administration Over SNAP Funding During Shutdown
Washington D.C.- A coalition of states launched a legal challenge against the Trump administration in late October 2025, contesting the handling of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding during a recent government shutdown. The lawsuit, filed in federal court, alleges the administration improperly restricted access to food assistance benefits amidst the budgetary impasse.This action followed the Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement that it would not implement emergency measures to bolster SNAP funding while federal agencies were closed.
Background: The 2018-2019 Government Shutdown & SNAP
The dispute centers on the administration’s interpretation of federal law regarding SNAP benefits during a government shutdown. States argued that the USDA’s decision to limit emergency funding created meaningful hardship for millions of Americans relying on food assistance. The shutdown, which began in December 2018 and lasted for thirty-five days, was the longest in U.S.history at the time.
The USDA’s actions put millions of Americans at risk of hunger,
stated a representative from the coalition of states. The lawsuit seeks a court order compelling the USDA to fully fund SNAP benefits and to clarify its authority during future government shutdowns.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| december 2018 | Government shutdown begins. |
| January 2019 | States begin raising concerns about SNAP funding. |
| October 28, 2025 | States file lawsuit against the Trump administration. |
Did you Know?
SNAP is the nation’s largest anti-hunger program, serving over 40 million Americans in 2023, according to the USDA.
Legal Arguments and State Concerns
The states’ petition argues that the USDA exceeded its authority by restricting SNAP funding during the shutdown. They contend that existing law requires the USDA to ensure continued access to food assistance, even in the absence of a congressional appropriation. the lawsuit specifically challenges the USDA’s interpretation of the Anti-deficiency Act, which prohibits federal agencies from spending money not appropriated by Congress.
Pro Tip:
Understanding the interplay between congressional appropriations and agency authority is crucial when analyzing government shutdowns and their impact on social programs.
Potential Implications
The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for how SNAP and other federal programs are administered during future government shutdowns. A ruling in favor of the states could establish a precedent requiring agencies to prioritize continued program access, even during budgetary impasses. Conversely, a ruling upholding the USDA’s actions could give agencies greater discretion in managing funds during shutdowns.
– Tony Romm and Emily Cochrane, reporting on the initial filing (2025)
the lawsuit highlights the vulnerability of essential social safety nets during periods of political gridlock. It underscores the need for clear legal guidance on how federal agencies should operate when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills on time.
SNAP and Government Shutdowns: A Recurring Issue
Government shutdowns and their impact on SNAP funding have been a recurring concern in recent decades. The program’s funding is often caught in the crosshairs of political battles over the federal budget. The debate often revolves around balancing fiscal duty with the need to provide essential assistance to vulnerable populations. Future shutdowns will likely continue to test the limits of agency authority and the resilience of the SNAP program.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP and Shutdowns
- What is SNAP? SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides food assistance benefits to low-income individuals and families.
- How do government shutdowns affect SNAP? Shutdowns can disrupt SNAP funding,possibly leading to reduced benefits or delays in payments.
- Can the USDA override Congress during a shutdown? The lawsuit questions the USDA’s authority to restrict SNAP funding without
