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13h ago

Judge Orders USDA to Restore SNAP, Sets Monday Deadline for Full Payments

The order instructs USDA to draw on contingency reserves, including Section 32, to cover November benefits during the shutdown.

Carts full of groceries wait to be given to people in need at Curley’s House Food Bank days before the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are jeopardized due to the Federal government shutdown on October 30, 2025 in Miami, Florida.
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A President Donald Trump banner is seen on the Labor Department building as runners make their way down Pennsylvania Ave. during the 50th Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 26.
Volunteers place food items in vehicles during a mobile food distribution at Cedar Creek High School in Cedar Creek, Texas, U.S., November 1, 2025. REUTERS/Kaylee Greenlee/File Photo

Overview

  • SNAP funds did not load on Nov. 1 for roughly 42 million people, triggering immediate gaps in food assistance across the country.
  • U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell Jr. ordered full November payments by Nov. 3 or at least partial payments by Nov. 5, citing about $5.25 billion in contingency funds and additional Section 32 balances.
  • The administration argued it lacks clear legal authority and sufficient reserves for full payments, while President Trump said he asked lawyers to seek court guidance and warned distribution could still be delayed.
  • Monthly SNAP costs are estimated at $8.5–$9 billion, and a separate Massachusetts judge signaled she would order payments if USDA does not act by Monday.
  • Food banks and local groups reported surging demand and launched emergency distributions from San Diego and Phoenix to Maine and New York City, with officials cautioning local aid cannot replace federal benefits.