Federal Judge Orders SNAP Benefits Restoration During Shutdown

A federal judge has ruled that the U.S. government must utilize its contingency funds to continue distributing SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, affecting millions of individuals reliant on this vital assistance. This decision comes amid a federal government shutdown that began in November 2023, during which SNAP benefits faced suspension deemed “likely unlawful” by the court.

The ruling issued by the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts responded to a lawsuit filed by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who, alongside a coalition of other attorneys general and governors, challenged the USDA’s announcement regarding the suspension of SNAP benefits. According to a statement from the Attorney General’s Office, “Millions of families rely on SNAP — or food stamps — to survive.”

In her statements, Attorney General James emphasized the unlawful nature of withholding these essential funds. She remarked, “The administration tried to use the shutdown as an excuse to withhold food assistance from vulnerable Americans, but the court has made clear that the law requires those benefits to continue.” This intervention highlights the pressing need to combat food insecurity, particularly among low-income households.

The court’s decision is significant as it reinforces the critical role SNAP plays in supporting millions. The judge found that the USDA violated federal law by failing to access its congressionally appropriated contingency fund, specifically designated for situations like the current funding lapse. Concurrently, the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island issued a temporary restraining order (TRO), further emphasizing the urgency of restoring SNAP benefits swiftly.

As part of the court’s directive, the federal government is required to submit a comprehensive plan outlining how it intends to deploy these emergency funds by November 3, 2023. According to reports from the Attorney General’s Office, the administration is expected to provide updates on measures to guarantee uninterrupted food assistance during this critical period.

The Attorney General’s Office reiterated its commitment to advocating for food security, stating, “We will keep fighting until every family in New York and across the nation can put food on the table.” The court’s ruling is a crucial step in ensuring that those in need continue to receive necessary support during the ongoing government shutdown.