Federal Judges Order Use of Reserve Funds for SNAP During Shutdown

Two federal judges have directed the Trump administration to use reserve funds to cover costs for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as the government shutdown continues.

The ruling, coming from judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, mandates that emergency funds be tapped, with a report due back to the court by Monday.

This decision follows an announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) stating that around 42 million Americans on SNAP would not receive their benefits in November because of insufficient funding caused by the shutdown.

SNAP is the largest food assistance program in the U.S., aiding about one in eight residents. Without funding, millions could face food insecurity.

The USDA had initially remarked that the $6 billion in emergency funds couldn’t be utilized for food stamp benefits lapses because these funds are meant only to supplement regular monthly benefits when there are appropriated amounts, yet they remain inadequate.

Furthermore, the agency noted that without appropriations for regular benefits, reserve funds would be unavailable to support them in fiscal year 2026.

Judge Indira Talwani of Massachusetts challenged this rationale, stating that the conclusion drawn by the government was fundamentally incorrect. She emphasized that the Department of Agriculture is legally required to access previously appropriated SNAP emergency reserves and has the discretion to utilize other secured funds as well.

She added that the court would permit the government to consider and report back on reducing SNAP benefits at least for November.

In light of this order, President Trump took to social media seeking clarity on the matter.

He mentioned that government lawyers do not believe they have the legal authority to fund SNAP with currently available resources. He expressed frustration over the conflicting court opinions and criticized Democrats for their role in the ongoing shutdown, which he argues could lead to hunger.

Trump directed his legal team to request immediate clarification on how to fund SNAP. He noted the potential delay if state funding depended on the court’s guidance, adding that it would be an honor to provide funding for SNAP like he did for military and law enforcement salaries, given the appropriate legal direction.

In a blunt statement, he called on Senate Democrats to restart the government and specifically cited Chuck Schumer’s office to urge action.

Concerns about the legality of using unspent funds for SNAP payments have been raised, suggesting that it could be a short-sighted measure amid the ongoing dispute over the budget.