Summary
The Trump administration has stopped federal funding for SNAP (food assistance) and other agriculture programs in Minnesota because of a large fraud investigation. The suspension affects over $129 million in funds due to concerns about financial mismanagement and failure to prevent fraud. Officials first noticed significant welfare fraud in the state in 2022, leading to numerous charges and ongoing investigations.
Key Facts
- The Trump administration halted over $129 million in agriculture funding to Minnesota.
- The suspension affects SNAP benefits, which help low-income people buy food.
- Around 453,900 people in Minnesota receive SNAP benefits.
- Federal authorities found large-scale welfare fraud in Minnesota in 2022.
- 78 people have been charged in connection with the fraud scheme.
- There are allegations of poor financial management in Minnesota and Minneapolis.
- The USDA asked Minnesota to verify SNAP recipient eligibility, but the state did not comply.
- SNAP fraud can happen through misrepresentation, illegal trading of benefits, or theft.
