SNAP aid in jeopardy: Federal judge stops suspension during shutdown

SNAP aid in jeopardy: Federal judge stops suspension during shutdown

In the United States, millions of households are facing uncertain times due to the ongoing government shutdown. But a court decision could shed light on the matter. A federal judge in Massachusetts has ruled that the US government's suspension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is unlawful. This means the government is obliged to announce by Monday whether reduced benefits will be approved for the month of November. The Ministry of Agriculture had previously announced that support would no longer be available from November 1st, which could have a significant impact on recipients. [Radio Ennepe Ruhr](https://www.radioenneperuhr.de/artikel/shutdown- Amerikaner-koennen-doch-auf-lebensmittelgeld-hoffen-2482802.html) reports that the shutdown has been ongoing since October 1st and is forcing many areas of government to stand still.

Food spending through SNAP reaches approximately $8.2 billion a month and supports approximately 42 million Americans. This figure shows how important the program is for low-income households, who often find themselves in a precarious situation without this help. On average, recipients, mostly seniors, people with disabilities and families with children, receive about $177 per month. Given this situation, it will be essential for many of them to rely on local food banks, which are already having to prepare for an increase in demand. Melinda Delarosa of Waltham, Massachusetts, is one of the many who rely on SNAP to support her family. She is calling on the Trump administration to use a federal emergency fund to continue funding. CBS News has previously reported on the desperate efforts to support families during this uncertain time.

Political blockade and its consequences

The shutdown, which affects more than a million people in Massachusetts and about one in eight people nationwide, highlights the difficulties between political parties. In Washington, the fronts between Democrats and Republicans remain hardened, paralyzing the legislative process. Many families feel trapped in this political conflict and fear for their existence. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey is encouraging donations to local food banks and recommending that citizens budget their resources carefully, as the funds available may be the only ones they receive until lawmakers reach an agreement.

The uncertainty surrounding the payment of support benefits in the coming weeks remains high. It is unclear when the aid will ultimately be paid out in November and how much it will be. Meanwhile, many are fighting for their existence by relying on alternative solutions such as food banks. The situation highlights not only the challenges facing individuals and families, but also the need for a functioning political system capable of making timely decisions.

How this situation will develop remains to be seen. In particular, a requested preliminary injunction, which is currently being processed, could have an impact on the future wave of support. A similar decision was also made in Rhode Island, which considers the suspension of SNAP aid to be unlawful. The whole situation requires quick action and solidarity to help the most affected households navigate through these times of crisis.