A federal judge has successfully blocked the Trump administration’s plan to stop food aid for over 40 million low-income Americans during the current US government shutdown. The judge issued a temporary restraining order, stating that the administration’s attempt to suspend the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is likely against the law.
The US Department of Agriculture had announced earlier this week that SNAP funds would not be distributed in November and beyond due to the shutdown, citing a lack of available funds. SNAP provides essential food assistance through reloadable debit cards, allowing recipients to purchase groceries.
On average, a family of four receives about $715 (£540) monthly, which amounts to roughly $6 (£4.50) per person per day. State governments manage these programs, relying heavily on federal funding, which has been unavailable since the government shutdown began in early October.
While some states have offered to cover any funding gaps with their own resources, the federal government has cautioned that they will not be reimbursed. The ongoing stalemate between Republicans and Democrats over funding, now entering its second month, shows no signs of immediate resolution.