Summary
A judge in Rhode Island has ordered the Trump administration to keep funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the government shutdown. This decision affects around 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP benefits, but it's uncertain if the funds will reach them in time.
Key Facts
- A federal judge ruled that the Trump administration must continue to fund SNAP during the government shutdown.
- SNAP provides food benefits to roughly 42 million Americans.
- The court ruling took place on a Friday, with a progress report due by the following Monday.
- The ruling came as a result of a lawsuit filed by 25 Democratic-led states and Washington, D.C.
- The lawsuit claims the administration is withholding up to $6 billion needed for SNAP.
- The administration argued the funds are reserved for other emergencies, like natural disasters.
- The judge decided that the immediate need for food was more important than saving funds for potential emergencies.
- Even if funds are released, there may be delays in distributing benefits as states need time to process them.
