Two federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island have ordered the Trump administration to continue funding SNAP, the nation’s largest food assistance program, using emergency reserves during the ongoing government shutdown.
Federal Judges Intervene to Keep Food Aid Running
Two separate rulings on Friday from U.S. District Judges Indira Talwani in Massachusetts and John J. McConnell in Rhode Island directed the Trump administration to use emergency reserve funds to sustain the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the shutdown.
Both judges granted the administration limited discretion over whether to fund the program partially or in full for November. However, officials warned of likely logistical delays that could disrupt payments for millions of beneficiaries whose debit cards are typically reloaded early in the month. The Department of Agriculture had planned to suspend payments beginning November 1.
Courts Reject Suspension as Unlawful
Judge Talwani’s written opinion called the USDA’s suspension of SNAP unlawful, ordering that contingency funds be used to maintain payments. She further required the government to clarify by Monday whether it would issue full or partial benefits using all available emergency reserves and supplemental funds.
In Rhode Island, Judge McConnell ruled from the bench that SNAP must be financed through contingency reserves and that all prior work requirement waivers remain in effect. His order prevents the administration from ending exemptions for veterans, older adults, and other vulnerable populations during the shutdown.
States and Advocates Applaud Temporary Relief
The rulings stemmed from lawsuits filed by 25 states, the District of Columbia, and several nonprofit organizations arguing that the administration is legally obligated to continue funding SNAP. Democratic officials contended that nearly $28 billion in emergency reserves, held across two separate accounts, can legally sustain the program during the impasse.
Food security advocates expressed cautious relief, noting that even temporary reinstatement of benefits could prevent major disruptions to local food systems. Many food banks and pantries had been preparing for record demand if SNAP were suspended, with millions of families at risk of going without essential groceries.
Uncertainty for Millions of Families
Despite the rulings, delays are expected due to the administrative process of distributing funds. The administration has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the decisions. SNAP, which costs about $8 billion per month, serves more than 41 million Americans and remains a cornerstone of the nation’s social safety net.
State agencies and community organizations have extended hours and mobilized emergency food programs to fill potential gaps. Advocacy groups emphasized that while the court orders preserve benefits for now, the underlying fiscal dispute could cause renewed disruptions if the shutdown continues.
Political Blame and Ongoing Legal Tensions
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said contingency reserves alone cannot sustain the program for long and accused Senate Democrats of blocking legislation to restore full funding. The administration has framed the impasse as the result of congressional inaction. At the same time, lawmakers argue the executive branch has a legal duty to ensure uninterrupted food aid.
President Trump acknowledged the rulings on social media, stating it would be his honor to comply once courts provide clear direction. Democratic leaders, meanwhile, said the decisions affirm that no American should be denied food assistance due to political conflict.
Looking Ahead
The administration must update courts by Monday on its implementation plan, including whether SNAP benefits will be fully funded or reduced for November. Advocates anticipate continued litigation if payments are delayed or made partially. For now, millions of families await clarity as agencies work to restore access to food aid.
For ongoing coverage of SNAP funding developments, federal rulings, and shutdown-related policy changes, visit ImmigrationQuestion.com. Get answers to your immigration questions from licensed immigration attorneys. For attorneys, use our innovative 3-in-1 case management software to grow your practice. Download our free app on Google Play and the Apple App Store.
Resources:
- https://www.nytimes.com/live/2025/10/31/us/trump-news
- https://apnews.com/article/snap-shutdown-lawsuits-deadline-4af8b0dec6cd31cddd023cc99c131b73
- https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/snap-food-stamps-judge-order-trump-administration-shutdown/
- https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr433x9zqq4o.amp
- https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/10/31/government-shutdown-food-assistance/
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