Federal Judge Halts Trump-Era SNAP Fines

A federal judge has delivered a major ruling on food assistance. The decision blocks significant fines planned by the Trump administration. The fines targeted states over their management of SNAP. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps millions of low-income families. This legal action provides immediate relief to state programs and beneficiaries, including many Green Card holders.

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A federal judge in Oregon issued a temporary halt. The order stops the Trump administration from imposing large fines on states. According to Reuters, the fines were related to states’ operation of the SNAP program.

The administration had threatened financial penalties. It claimed states failed to meet a procedural deadline. This deadline involved updated guidance on immigrant eligibility.

The judge’s ruling is a preliminary injunction. It prevents the fines while the legal case continues. States argued the penalties were unjust and disruptive.

The conflict centers on fraud concerns within SNAP. The Trump administration has called the program deeply flawed. It sought data on participants to verify eligibility.

This data included Social Security numbers and immigration status. The requested information was intended to root out abuse. States resisted providing this detailed personal data.

SNAP Eligibility and Legal Challenges

The ruling touches on complex eligibility rules. SNAP benefits are primarily for U.S. citizens. Certain lawfully present non-citizens can also qualify.

This group includes Green Card holders. Many must wait five years before receiving aid. Eligible children can get benefits even if a parent is ineligible.

A major legal fight erupted in November. Twenty-one state attorneys general filed a lawsuit. They challenged a move to cut benefits for lawful permanent residents.

The administration reversed its position in December. New guidance confirmed Green Card holders could keep benefits. This included former refugees and asylees.

However, the threat of fines remained. States were told they missed a grace period for applying the new rules. The final guidance was issued on December 10.

State Officials Hail Court Decision

Oregon’s Attorney General, Dan Rayfield, praised the court. He said the order protects families who rely on food aid. It removes uncertainty for vital programs.

Rayfield argued the fines would strain state budgets. He also warned they could risk food assistance for vulnerable families. The judge agreed the penalties could cause irreparable harm.

The ruling allows states to continue SNAP operations normally. They can do so without fear of immediate financial punishment. The legal process will now determine the final outcome.

The block on SNAP fines represents a significant legal setback for the administration’s enforcement strategy. It ensures continued food aid distribution during the holiday season and beyond. The future of these program rules now rests with the courts.