Overview
- Monthly food benefits did not load on Nov. 1 for tens of millions, leaving EBT cards empty across the country.
- Two federal judges directed the administration to tap contingency funds, with a Rhode Island order requiring a plan by Monday and at least partial payments by Wednesday.
- President Trump said the government needs legal clarity to access funds and warned that, even if permitted, states will take days or longer to distribute payments.
- The SNAP reserve of roughly $5.25–6 billion falls short of the $8.5–9 billion needed for November, raising the risk of renewed shortfalls if the shutdown continues into December.
- Food banks and pantries report long lines from Los Angeles to New York, Phoenix, Cincinnati, Albuquerque and Louisville, while states roll out stopgaps such as Virginia’s VENA starting Monday and New Mexico’s $30 million in emergency aid, and schools prepare for rising student food insecurity.