Summary
A federal judge ruled that the Trump administration must give states more time to implement new rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The decision came after multiple states sued the administration over guidance that affected refugees and asylum-seekers. The grace period for implementing the new rules is now extended until April 9, 2026.
Key Facts
- SNAP is the largest anti-hunger program in the U.S., helping about 42 million people with low or no income buy groceries.
- A recent law signed by President Trump reduced the number of immigrants eligible for SNAP benefits, but states were allowed a grace period to start implementing these changes.
- On October 31, the USDA issued guidance that restricted SNAP access for certain legal immigrants, leading to a lawsuit from 20 state attorneys general.
- On December 10, the Trump administration reversed its position, reaffirming that all lawful permanent residents remain eligible for SNAP.
- The USDA and the states disagreed on when the grace period for implementing these changes began, causing legal disputes.
- U.S. District Judge Michael Simon Kasubhai ruled that the USDA must honor the full 120-day grace period for policy implementation.
- The new deadline for states to comply with the SNAP changes is April 9, 2026.
