States Sue USDA Over Halted SNAP Benefits During Government Shutdown
Several states have filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Agriculture, accusing them of unlawfully halting food assistance to over 42 million Americans during the government shutdown. The states, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, argue that the USDA's decision to suspend November payments for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) violates federal law. The USDA attributed the suspension to the lack of funding due to the government shutdown, blaming Democrats for the situation.
The attorneys general of multiple states, along with governors from Kansas, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania, have joined the lawsuit against the USDA. They criticize the agency for not using $6 billion in contingency funds to maintain SNAP operations during the funding lapse. The states argue that cutting off benefits violates the Food and Nutrition Act, which mandates assistance to all eligible households, and the Administrative Procedure Act, alleging that the decision is arbitrary and capricious.
The lawsuit seeks a temporary restraining order to compel the USDA to allocate the contingency funds for November SNAP benefits to prevent residents from losing access to food. Despite requests from attorneys general to use the funds to cover most benefits, the Trump administration has refused, claiming the funds are not legally available. Some Senate Republicans are considering a standalone bill to keep SNAP benefits running, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune suggesting that the best way to fund the program is for Democrats to vote to end the shutdown.
Children, seniors, and veterans heavily rely on SNAP benefits, with nearly 60% of recipients being children and seniors. In New York alone, the program serves around 3 million people, including children and older adults. The average monthly benefit is $187 per person, supporting those with incomes at or below the poverty level. Many states are advising residents to seek out food banks and stock up on supplies to tide them over until the situation is resolved.
In conclusion, the lawsuit against the USDA highlights the critical need for SNAP benefits and the impact of the government shutdown on millions of Americans who rely on this assistance. The legal battle underscores the importance of ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to essential food support during challenging times.