Summary
Twenty-four states and Washington, D.C., sued President Trump's administration due to halted SNAP benefits during the government shutdown. SNAP helps 42 million Americans buy food, and its suspension has increased calls to end the shutdown. The USDA said it can't use emergency funds to keep SNAP running, as ongoing appropriations have not been made.
Key Facts
- SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income households.
- The U.S. government shutdown began on October 1st.
- 24 states and Washington D.C. are suing the Trump administration over pausing SNAP benefits.
- SNAP benefits won't be distributed on November 1st due to funding issues.
- The USDA has $5 billion in emergency funds but says it can't use them for SNAP without regular funding.
- State officials argue that stopping SNAP benefits will lead to food insecurity and related health issues.
- The USDA warned that using emergency funds for SNAP could harm other food aid programs.
- State leaders say the federal government should fulfill its obligation to provide SNAP benefits.
