Trump Official Reports Higher Estimate for Partial SNAP Benefits
An official from the U.S. Agriculture Department revealed a significant adjustment regarding SNAP benefits for November. Allotments will now be set at 65% of the regular rate, rather than the previously projected 50%. This new estimate came to light during a federal court session on Wednesday.
Details of the SNAP Adjustments
The revised plan indicates that a family of four in the contiguous United States will receive approximately $646 for their monthly SNAP benefits. This increase is attributed to a decision by the Trump administration to utilize more than $4 billion in contingency funds to support beneficiaries amidst the ongoing government shutdown.
Clarification on Benefit Distribution
Patrick Penn, the deputy undersecretary for food, nutrition, and consumer services, disclosed the updated figures in a court filing. The Department of Justice characterized the previous estimate as an “error” and emphasized that they acted promptly to address it upon discovery.
Impact of the Ongoing Government Shutdown
- The government shutdown has now reached its 36th day, marking it as the longest in U.S. history.
- Exact timelines for distributing these benefits to more than 40 million recipients remain unclear.
- Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins noted that partial payments will require “several weeks to execute.”
- Once the government reopens, full benefits will be made available without delay.
Numerous states are implementing strategies to mitigate the effects of the funding shortage on affected families. Feedback is encouraged from individuals impacted by the shutdown. This includes federal employees unable to work and those reliant on federal assistance like SNAP.
