Supreme Court Justice Jackson Halts Lower Court Ruling on Full SNAP Benefits

The Supreme Court has temporarily blocked a ruling requiring full SNAP benefit payments. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson issued the administrative stay late Friday. The decision sides with the Trump administration’s appeal.

This action impacts 42 million Americans relying on food assistance. It freezes a lower court’s order during the ongoing government shutdown. The case now returns to a federal appeals court for further review.

Legal Battle Over Food Aid Intensifies

Justice Jackson’s order grants the First Circuit Court more time. The court must consider the administration’s emergency appeal. According to the Associated Press, this is a standard procedural move.

The stay pauses a ruling from US District Judge John McConnell. He had demanded the government release full SNAP payments. He suggested using contingency and child nutrition funds.

Judge McConnell called the administration’s reasoning “implausible.” He argued available funds could cover full benefits. He stated children risked losing food assistance otherwise.

Broader Implications for Government Spending

The Justice Department defended the administration’s position. It argued funding lapses stem from Congressional impasses. It warned against courts redirecting funds by judicial order.

The department called such intervention a “run on the bank.” It emphasized the Executive Branch’s role in allocating limited resources. This case tests the balance of power between government branches.

Low-income households now face uncertainty about November benefits. SNAP assists individuals earning below 130% of the poverty line. A single person can receive up to $298 monthly for food.

The Supreme Court’s temporary stay on full SNAP benefits highlights the legal complexities of government shutdowns. This ruling delays critical food assistance for millions of Americans as the appeals process continues.

Thought you’d like to know

What did Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s ruling do?

She issued an administrative stay. This temporarily blocked a lower court’s order for full SNAP payments. It gives an appeals court more time to consider the case.

How many people does this SNAP ruling affect?

The ruling impacts approximately 42 million Americans. These individuals depend on SNAP for food assistance. Their November benefit amounts are now uncertain.

What was the lower court’s original decision?

Judge John McConnell required full SNAP benefit payments. He rejected the administration’s partial payment argument. He found available funds could cover the full amounts.

What happens to SNAP benefits now?

Benefit payments remain in legal limbo. The appeals court must now rule on the administration’s motion. The stay lasts until 48 hours after that decision.

Why did the Justice Department appeal?

It argued Congress controls government spending. It claimed courts should not redirect funds by judicial order. It warned this could set a problematic precedent.