Judges Rule Trump Administration Must Use Emergency Funds to Keep SNAP Benefits Flowing

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.

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