Overview
- USDA told states to cap November SNAP allotments at about 50% after judges ordered the administration to use roughly $4.6–$4.65 billion in contingency funds.
- President Trump posted that benefits would wait until Democrats reopen government, while a White House spokeswoman said the administration is complying with court orders and issuing partial payments.
- State agencies report operational hurdles before funds reach EBT cards, with Nevada warning of unclear timing and Minnesota citing complex new procedures and a vendor rejecting some October applications.
- Local and state responses are ramping up, including a San Diego County emergency appeal to USDA, a Nevada proposal for a temporary state-funded SNAP bridge, Arizona’s Food Bucks Now vouchers and food bank support, and tribal emergency measures in Montana.
- Food banks from the Bay Area to Florida and Arizona report surging demand and long lines as families wait for reduced or delayed benefits.