Federal Court Orders Full SNAP Benefits as Trump Administration Appeals Ruling

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to distribute full November SNAP benefits. The ruling came amid a government shutdown that threatened food aid for millions. States are now scrambling to get the money to people.

The administration quickly asked a federal appeals court to block the judge’s order. They argue the court cannot force them to spend money not appropriated by Congress.

States Act Swiftly to Distribute Food Aid

Several states confirmed they are moving quickly. Officials in California, Kansas, and Wisconsin said some recipients have already received their full November payments. According to Reuters, the USDA notified states it was working to release the funds.

In Wisconsin, over $104 million became available for 337,000 households. A state spokesperson said they processed the payments within hours of the court order. Other states, including New York and Massachusetts, expect benefits to arrive by the weekend.

Legal Battle Creates Uncertainty for Recipients

The court wrangling prolongs weeks of uncertainty for the program. SNAP serves about one in eight Americans. For some, the situation remains stressful.

Jasmen Youngbey, a New Jersey mother, waited in a food pantry line Friday. She said her SNAP account balance was at zero. Later that day, she confirmed her benefits had finally arrived.

The Trump administration contends the court order violates the separation of powers. Justice Department lawyers called the injunction “unprecedented.” They have asked the appeals court to suspend the ruling immediately.

The ongoing legal fight over SNAP benefits highlights the program’s critical role. Millions of American families depend on this assistance. The final outcome will directly impact their food security this month.

Thought you’d like to know-

What are SNAP benefits?

SNAP is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It provides food-purchasing assistance for low-income individuals and families. Benefits are distributed monthly on an electronic card.

Why were November SNAP payments at risk?

The payments were jeopardized by the ongoing federal government shutdown. The Trump administration initially said benefits would not be available for November due to a lack of appropriated funds.

How much money do SNAP recipients get?

An individual can receive a maximum of nearly $300 per month. A family of four can receive up to nearly $1,000. Actual amounts are based on income and household size.

Have all states issued the full November benefits?

No, the process varies by state. Some states issued full payments immediately after the court order. Others distributed partial payments and are working to provide the remainder.

What is the Trump administration’s legal argument?

The administration argues that the judicial branch cannot appropriate or spend money. They say this power rests solely with Congress, making the court order unconstitutional.