White House to Partially Fund SNAP Benefits Amid Trump’s Threats During Government Shutdown
The White House announced plans to partially fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the ongoing government shutdown. Despite President Donald Trump’s threats to withhold federal assistance, the administration affirmed its commitment to continue some food aid operations.
Government Commitment to Food Aid
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the administration will comply with a court order to maintain SNAP benefits. “We’re getting that partial payment out the door as quickly as we can,” she stated, emphasizing urgency in the distribution of funds.
Trump’s Conflicting Statements
Earlier, Trump caused confusion by stating on Truth Social that SNAP would only be funded when Democrats reopened the government. This statement raised concerns about the impact on millions who depend on these benefits for food purchases.
- Over 42 million Americans receive SNAP benefits.
- Average monthly benefit: approximately $350 per household.
- Trump’s recent statement has sparked potential legal battles regarding the continuation of funding.
Legal Challenges and Court Orders
In response to Trump’s announcement, a coalition of states, cities, and organizations has initiated lawsuits to secure ongoing SNAP assistance. They criticized the administration’s stance, with Skye Perryman, CEO of Democracy Forward, calling it immoral and pledging legal action.
The government is drawing from a $5 billion contingency fund to provide partial benefits through November. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued guidance for states about the distribution of these funds, aiming for a swift rollout.
Details of the Partial Payments
This month, not all beneficiaries will receive an equal reduction. For instance:
- Families receiving the maximum of $994 will get half that amount.
- One and two-person households will see a decrease from $24 to $12.
- Other households may receive varying amounts below half based on income and size.
Upcoming Court Hearing
A federal judge in Rhode Island is set to hear further arguments on Thursday regarding full SNAP benefits. The hearing comes after the administration announced its plan to provide only partial funding.
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit aim to redirect unused tariff funds designated for child nutrition programs to support SNAP benefits for November. However, the USDA has expressed reservations about this approach, citing potential risks to the school meals program serving 29 million children daily.
This ongoing situation surrounding SNAP funding illustrates the complexities of food aid in the context of political disputes and legal interpretations.
