URGENT UPDATE: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on CNN’s State of the Union that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits could resume as early as Wednesday. This announcement comes after two federal judges ruled that the administration must utilize contingency funds to continue SNAP payments impacting nearly 42 million Americans.
The implications of this development are critical. With the federal government in a shutdown since October 1, many federal employees are either working without pay or are furloughed, and essential benefits are on hold. SNAP is pivotal for households, with approximately 75 percent of SNAP beneficiaries living at or below the poverty line.
Bessent stated, “There’s a process that has to be followed” regarding the allocation of funds for SNAP, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The judges’ rulings require the administration to partially pay SNAP recipients this month amidst the ongoing shutdown. U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell Jr. ruled that “the congressionally approved contingency funds must be used now because of the shutdown.”
Another judge, Indira Talwani, echoed this sentiment, labeling the suspension of SNAP payments as “unlawful” and demanding updates by Monday on the government’s intentions regarding funding for the program. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) claimed it lacks sufficient legal authority and funds to provide full benefits, although approximately $5.25 billion is available in contingency funds.
With each passing day, the delay in SNAP payouts raises concerns, leaving millions of Americans struggling to afford groceries. Local food banks and community volunteers have mobilized in anticipation of these delays, with states like New York declaring a state of emergency and allocating over $100 million for emergency food supplies.
California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his support for the legal rulings, stating, “The USDA needs to release all available funding for this critical program immediately.” Conversely, Senate Majority Leader John Thune urged a nonpartisan solution to fund essential programs like SNAP.
As the situation evolves, Bessent confirmed that a resolution could be reached by Wednesday, contingent upon cooperation from Democratic senators to open the government. Meanwhile, President Trump stated on Truth Social that the administration is exploring legal avenues to fund SNAP swiftly, emphasizing the urgency to assist needy families.
The urgency surrounding SNAP payments is palpable. As the administration faces mounting pressure, the next steps are crucial. Federal judges expect a plan by Monday on how the government intends to fund SNAP benefits for November. The clock is ticking, and millions await the outcome.
This developing story highlights the intersection of government policy, legal rulings, and the dire needs of American families relying on SNAP. Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds.
