US judge blocks Trump administration from halting Snap food benefits

October 31, 2025

Two federal judges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts have ordered the Trump administration to continue funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) despite an ongoing government shutdown that began October 1st. The USDA had announced it would halt November food assistance payments to over 40 million low-income Americans, claiming available funds were exhausted. The judges ruled that the administration must use an approximately $6 billion emergency contingency fund to maintain the program, rejecting the USDA's argument that such funds could only be used for natural disasters.

Who is affected

More than 40 million low-income Americans who receive SNAP benefits
Families of four who receive an average of $715 per month in food assistance
US states that administer SNAP benefits using federal funding
US cities and NGOs that brought lawsuits
Seniors and veterans who depend on SNAP
Half of US states that sued the Trump administration

What action is being taken

Two federal judges are requiring the Trump administration to pay SNAP benefits using the contingency fund
Several states are using their own funds to cover any shortfall in SNAP payments
Half of US states are suing the Trump administration to force use of emergency reserves

Why it matters

This ruling ensures continued access to essential food assistance for over 40 million vulnerable Americans who depend on SNAP benefits averaging less than $6 per day per person for groceries. The decision establishes that the administration cannot suspend congressionally-mandated nutrition programs during funding lapses and prevents the use of food security as leverage during political disputes. The case also addresses fundamental questions about executive authority to withhold emergency funds and sets precedent for how essential social safety net programs are protected during government shutdowns.

What's next

The Trump administration must report back to the Massachusetts court by Monday on whether they will authorize at least partial benefits for November
The administration must decide whether to pay reduced benefits from the contingency fund or pay full benefits by transferring money from other programs
No explicit resolution timeline for the government shutdown is stated

Read full article from source: BBC