Overview
- The USDA has told states it cannot issue November SNAP benefits without new appropriations, stating in a public notice that “there will be no benefits issued November 01.”
- About 40–42 million people face a lapse in food aid after the agency said SNAP contingency funds are not legally available for routine monthly payments, a shift from past shutdown practices cited by lawmakers and former officials.
- A coalition of 25 states filed suit seeking a court order to keep benefits flowing or force use of contingency funds, with the case brought in federal court and requests for immediate relief expected.
- States are rolling out stopgaps, including California fast‑tracking $80 million for food banks and deploying National Guard support, while local businesses in places like Maine and Kansas City organize free meals and donations.
- Food banks report strained supplies from Connecticut to the Kansas City area and experts warn the cutoff could dent grocery sales and disrupt supply chains, as President Trump says November benefits will be “solved” without offering details.