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4h ago

USDA Warns States to Hold November SNAP Payments as Shutdown Threatens Aid to 42 Million

Federal contingency reserves appear insufficient to cover the roughly $8 billion needed for a full month of benefits.

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A sign alerting customers about SNAP food stamps benefits is displayed at a Brooklyn grocery store on December 5, 2019, in New York City. (Scott Heins/Getty Images)
Fresh produce like strawberries and grapes are on display at a community market in San Francisco. Gov. Gavin Newsom said the federal shutdown means SNAP benefits, for food assistance, may be delayed for Californians next month.
Fort Myers, FL, USA – March 24, 2013: Several volunteers packing name brand canned, non-perishable food in boxes during a food drive at Next Level Church in Fort Myers, FL.

Overview

  • USDA told states SNAP is funded through October and directed them to delay November issuance files and hold EBT distributions approved after Oct. 16.
  • Multiple states, including Texas, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, New York, West Virginia and California, have warned residents that November benefits may not be issued if the shutdown continues.
  • Gov. Gavin Newsom said benefits for 5.5 million Californians could be delayed starting Nov. 1 unless the shutdown ends this week.
  • Food banks and pantries from Chicago to Detroit and Philadelphia are preparing for a surge in demand, cautioning they cannot replace the scale of federal assistance.
  • New SNAP work requirements for certain adults without dependents take effect Nov. 1, adding policy changes on eligibility as funding uncertainty persists.