A federal judge in Rhode Island blocked the Trump administration from halting SNAP benefits for 42 million Americans during the government shutdown. The ruling, issued Friday by Judge Jack McConnell, required the administration to pay food stamp benefits out of emergency funds “as soon as possible,” just one day before the planned cutoff.
Irreparable Harm Cited by the Court
McConnell emphasized the urgent impact, saying, “There is no doubt… that irreparable harm will begin to occur if it hasn’t already occurred in the terror it has caused some people about the availability of funding for food for their family.” Plaintiffs argued the administration’s planned suspension was “arbitrary and capricious,” creating a crisis for families reliant on SNAP.
Administration Argues Lack of Funds
A Justice Department lawyer contended that SNAP could not continue due to the absence of congressionally appropriated funds, asserting the program no longer legally exists during the shutdown. McConnell countered that contingency funds set aside by Congress should be used to maintain at least some benefits.
Legal Pressure from Multiple Courts
Minutes earlier, U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani in Boston, overseeing a similar lawsuit, indicated that the plaintiffs — a coalition of states — were likely to prove the suspension unlawful. She has given the administration until Monday to confirm whether reduced SNAP benefits will be authorized for November.
Response from Plaintiffs and Lawmakers
Plaintiffs, including cities, nonprofits, unions, and businesses, called the ruling a “lifeline for millions of families, seniors, and veterans.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump’s attempt to cut benefits, calling it “vindictive and heartless” and highlighting that no prior president had stopped SNAP during a shutdown.
For more on the government shutdown, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.