States Sue USDA to Restore Food Stamps Amid Government Shutdown

A coalition of 23 attorneys general and three governors has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The legal action challenges the suspension of SNAP benefits, commonly known as food stamps, due to the ongoing government shutdown. This move aims to immediately restore critical food assistance for millions of Americans.

The lawsuit argues the USDA’s decision is unlawful and inhumane. It claims Congress set aside contingency funds for this exact scenario. According to Reuters, the suspension threatens food security for vulnerable populations across the nation.

Legal Battle Centers on Congressional Intent and Contingency Funds

The coalition filed the suit in federal court on Tuesday. They are seeking a temporary restraining order to force the USDA to reinstate benefits. The central legal argument is that the USDA is ignoring Congressional intent.

Congress had appropriated billions in a SNAP contingency fund. This fund was specifically designed to maintain benefits during a funding lapse. The lawsuit alleges the USDA is making a deliberate choice to withhold these resources, a move they call arbitrary and capricious.

Widespread Impact on Families and the Economy

The suspension affects approximately 42 million people nationwide. This includes children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. The economic ripple effects are also significant.

Every dollar in SNAP benefits generates about $1.54 in economic activity. Grocers and merchants who accept these benefits will see a sharp drop in revenue. Food banks and pantries are also expected to be overwhelmed by increased demand.

The outcome of this SNAP benefits lawsuit will have immediate consequences for national food security. A favorable ruling would provide a crucial lifeline for millions of families. The court’s decision is now urgently awaited.

Info at your fingertips

What is the SNAP benefits lawsuit about?

It is a legal challenge filed by multiple states against the USDA. The suit aims to force the agency to restore food stamp payments it suspended during the government shutdown. The states argue the suspension is illegal.

How many people are affected by the SNAP suspension?

Approximately 42 million Americans who rely on this assistance are impacted. In Maryland alone, over 680,000 residents receive these benefits. This includes hundreds of thousands of children and seniors.

What are the states asking the court to do?

The coalition is requesting a temporary restraining order. This would compel the USDA to immediately restart SNAP benefit distributions. They want the court to rule before November benefits are lost.

Why does the lawsuit claim the suspension is unlawful?

The states argue Congress created a special contingency fund for SNAP. They say the USDA is illegally refusing to use these already-appropriated funds. This action, they claim, violates the Administrative Procedure Act.

What is the economic impact of SNAP benefits?

SNAP benefits are a significant economic driver. Every dollar spent through the program generates an estimated $1.54 in local economic activity. Suspending benefits could therefore slow local economies.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, BBC News, The Wall Street Journal