Summary
Attorneys general from 21 states have sued the Trump administration over new rules that they argue unlawfully prevent some legal immigrants from receiving food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The USDA issued guidance stating that legal permanent residents who entered the U.S. as refugees or asylum seekers cannot receive SNAP benefits, which the states contest. The lawsuit was filed in Oregon and includes multiple states joining the challenge.
Key Facts
- 21 states are suing the Trump administration over new SNAP benefit rules.
- The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed in July, changes SNAP eligibility for certain immigrants.
- The USDA guidance permanently bars specific immigrants, including refugees and asylum seekers, from receiving SNAP.
- The states argue the law does not stop these individuals from becoming eligible later if they gain legal permanent residency.
- The USDA's guidance became effective immediately after release, not allowing states time to adjust.
- The lawsuit contends that the USDA did not provide the required 120-day grace period for states.
- Fines from implementing the new rules could potentially end SNAP programs in some states.
- The lawsuit was filed by attorneys general from multiple states, including California, New York, and others.
