USDA Releases Partial SNAP funds amid Government Shutdown

USDA Announces Partial Funding for SNAP Benefits During Federal Government Shutdown

As the federal government shutdown continues, the future of SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) has been a major topic of concern nationwide. Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it will partially fund SNAP after judicial rulings required the agency to continue the program despite limited appropriations.

On Monday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins posted an update on X (formerly Twitter) confirming that President Trump directed the USDA to provide stopgap support for both WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) and SNAP programs.

“President Trump is doing everything he can to help our most vulnerable mothers and babies while Radical Left Democrats continue to obstruct. Today, full November WIC benefits will be disbursed to States. Additionally, we submitted to the courts our plan to get partial allotments to SNAP households. Both are STOPGAP measures that create unnecessary chaos in State systems and distribution of benefits. It will take several weeks to execute partial payments.” — Secretary Brooke Rollins, via X

The announcement came after the USDA had previously warned that, without congressional funding, it would be unable to guarantee November SNAP disbursements. Monday’s decision provides a temporary solution allowing states to begin issuing partial SNAP payments in the coming weeks.

Secretary Rollins provided a follow-up post on Tuesday, detailing the steps USDA is taking to support states in implementing the new plan.

“This morning, USDA sent SNAP guidance to States. My team stands by to offer immediate technical assistance. This will be a cumbersome process, including revised eligibility systems, State notification procedures and ultimately, delayed benefits for weeks, but we will help States navigate those challenges.” — Secretary Brooke Rollins, via X

Rollins acknowledged that while the plan would ensure some continuity of aid, delays and disruptions are expected as states reconfigure eligibility and distribution systems. The partial funding measure is intended to minimize hardship for low-income families relying on federal food assistance until full appropriations are restored.

In addition to implementing temporary funding, the USDA is also investigating potential fraud within the SNAP program, according to Secretary Rollins. The agency aims to ensure that taxpayer dollars are distributed properly and that assistance reaches those who need it most.

As the government shutdown continues, both federal and state agencies are working to stabilize essential nutrition programs while awaiting a long-term budget resolution.