The Trump administration has revised its initial decision regarding SNAP food aid for November, stating that beneficiaries will now receive 65% of their usual benefits instead of the previously suggested cut of 50%. However, some recipients may see a total elimination of benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown, which puts more than 42 million Americans at risk when it comes to food security.
According to a late Wednesday court filing from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the maximum benefit reduction will allow for a 35% cut for households receiving the maximum aid. Many states are scrambling to implement these changes swiftly; Louisiana has indicated it may begin reloading benefit cards as early as Friday.
However, some states are experiencing delays, making it unclear when recipients will be able to access their benefits. If the government shutdown continues into December, future funding remains uncertain, leading to fears among recipients about their ability to afford groceries.
Democratic Gov. Maura Healey spoke at a food bank in Massachusetts expressing frustration with the mixed messages from the Trump administration, criticizing the partial funding approach. Critics argue these cuts do not address the urgent need and could leave many food-insecure families in peril.
The USDA's revised reduction formula indicates that for a family of three, the reduction in benefits could total $275, while individuals living alone may see a $105 decrease in their SNAP support.
Amid these challenges, many states have sought to supplement existing support by increasing funding for food banks and providing direct state funding to affected households. Legal actions are also underway, with cities and non-profits pushing for a ruling that would ensure full SNAP funding throughout the month.
