A prolonged government shutdown has led to a significant disruption in food assistance for millions of Americans, as the USDA has issued a directive affecting SNAP payment distributions. With the impasse continuing, families relying on food stamps face uncertainty regarding their benefits.
USDA Halts SNAP Payments
In a directive issued late Saturday, the US Department of Agriculture instructed state SNAP directors to retract previously authorized full November benefits. The memo explicitly stated, “States must immediately undo any steps taken to issue full SNAP benefits for November 2025,” urging compliance to avoid penalties.
The memo further warned that noncompliance could lead to the “cancellation of the Federal share of State administrative costs” and hold states accountable for any excess benefits disbursed.
Impact of the Government Shutdown
Approximately 42 million Americans rely on SNAP for their grocery needs. The ongoing government shutdown, now the longest in US history, has turned SNAP into a critical issue in negotiations.
Meanwhile, numerous federal workers remain either furloughed or without pay. The situation has led to a shortage of air traffic controllers, resulting in grounded flights as Thanksgiving approaches.
Legal Disputes Over SNAP Funding
Despite the USDA’s intent to suspend benefits starting November 1, a court in Rhode Island intervened, mandating the use of emergency funds. The USDA acknowledged compliance with the court’s order to utilize SNAP contingency reserves.
However, President Trump posted on Truth Social on November 4, indicating that benefits would not resume until the shutdown concludes. Following this, the administration challenged the court’s decision, with the Supreme Court temporarily halting the Rhode Island ruling, permitting the USDA to withhold payments for November.
