Two federal judges have ordered the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to continue, even amid the ongoing federal government shutdown.
What the Rulings Say
- In Massachusetts, U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani found that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is required by law to tap a contingency fund of about $5 billion to cover November SNAP benefits. nbcboston.com
- In Rhode Island, U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell Jr. ruled that the USDA must use a contingency/reserve fund (about $6 billion) to keep SNAP going during the funding lapse. providencejournal.com
- Both rulings rejected the USDA’s argument that it lacked legal authority to use these funds because of the shutdown. cbsnews.com
Why It Matters
- SNAP serves roughly 42 million Americans, making it one of the largest anti‑hunger programs in the U.S. Reuters
- A shutdown‑driven freeze in benefits would mark the first time SNAP was interrupted so widely due to a funding lapse. Politico
- These legal decisions stop the administration from halting the benefits outright and force use of existing emergency funds — at least temporarily.
Where Things Stand Now
- The USDA now has until Monday (per the Massachusetts judge) to tell the court whether it will authorize reduced or full benefits using contingency funds. cbsnews.com
- Even with the court orders, there may still be delays for recipients, because state agencies and the USDA will need time to release and distribute the funds. wcvb.com
- Appeals are likely. The USDA’s claim that the contingency funds can’t be used because Congress didn’t approve a full appropriation for this fiscal year is under legal challenge. abc7.com
- Other related issues: federal employees are still unpaid during the shutdown, and travel disruptions are expected ahead of Thanksgiving because of staffing shortages.
Key Takeaways
- If you or someone you know depends on SNAP benefits: monitor your state’s announcements for when cards are loaded or benefits resume.
- For advocates or service providers: this ruling is a temporary win, but keep an eye on future funding or regulatory risks.
- For the general reader: the case highlights how shutdowns impact safety‑net programs and the legal mechanisms that can keep them operating during crises.