States Sue Trump Administration Over Food Aid Funding Dispute

BOSTON, Oct. 28 (Reuters) – A coalition of 25 Democratic-led states is suing the Trump administration to stop a planned suspension of food aid for millions of Americans. The lawsuit comes as the U.S. government enters its 28th day of shutdown, threatening Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for over 40 million low-income Americans.

The states are urging the federal government to use a $6 billion emergency fund for SNAP, which provides crucial food assistance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has indicated it will not use this fund, claiming it must be reserved for emergencies like natural disasters.

California Governor Gavin Newsom stated, “While Donald Trump parades around the world… he’s denying food to millions of Americans who will go hungry next month. It’s cruel and speaks to his basic lack of humanity.”

The lawsuit argues that not using the contingency funds is unlawful and harms millions who depend on SNAP for groceries. The coalition asserts this decision could lead to widespread food insecurity, hunger, and related health issues across the nation.

New York Attorney General Letitia James emphasized that SNAP is one of the nation’s most effective tools to fight hunger. “The federal government must do its job to protect families,” she said.

The SNAP program typically dispenses around $8 billion in benefits each month, making it essential for low-income families. The USDA’s refusal to issue benefits starting November 1 would mark the first lapse in the program’s 60-year history due to a government shutdown.

Democratic state officials argue that they have a legal right to access contingency funds to ensure SNAP operates uninterrupted. “We are taking a stand because families will experience hunger and malnutrition if the Trump administration gets its way,” said California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

In response, the USDA blamed Democrats for the shutdown, asserting that they need to choose between reopening the government to help vulnerable families or holding onto far-left priorities. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins claimed SNAP funding had indeed run out.

As the deadline looms, states are working to locate alternative assistance for those affected. Many governors have proposed using state funds to cover SNAP shortfalls, but federal authorities have warned that these states will not be reimbursed.

The ongoing legal battle and the fallout of the government shutdown are expected to further strain food assistance resources and services across the nation.