Additional Coverage:
- Some States Won’t Get SNAP Benefits in November Due to Government Shutdown (marketrealist.com)
Government Shutdown Threatens SNAP and WIC Benefits for Millions
Washington D.C. / Nationwide – The ongoing federal government shutdown is poised to impact millions of low-income Americans as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are expected to be suspended in several states starting in November. The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program also faces a critical funding shortage, potentially leaving vulnerable mothers and children without crucial support.
SNAP, a federal program administered by individual states, assists approximately 42 million low-income individuals and families with purchasing food. The current political impasse in Washington has led to warnings from multiple states that November’s benefits may be delayed or entirely halted.
States Issuing Warnings
According to reports, residents in Texas, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and New York have been notified that SNAP benefits could cease or be delayed if the government shutdown persists beyond October 27, 2025. Other states expressing similar concerns include Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, Oregon, Wisconsin, and California.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services issued a direct statement, attributing the impending benefit suspension to “Republicans in Washington, D.C. failed to pass a federal budget, causing the federal government shutdown.”
Political Blame Game Intensifies
California Governor Gavin Newsom has vocally criticized Republicans and former President Trump for the shutdown and its potential impact on food assistance. In a statement reported by the LA Times, Governor Newsom warned that delayed SNAP benefits would endanger lives and increase the cost of basic necessities as the holiday season approaches. He urged congressional Republicans to “grow a spine, stand up to Trump and deliver for the American people.”
Conversely, the White House, through spokesperson Abigail Jackson, has placed the blame squarely on Democrats, asserting that their “decision to shut down the government is hurting Americans across the country.” Republicans have echoed this sentiment, despite backing measures that include cuts to healthcare subsidies.
WIC Program Also in Jeopardy
Beyond SNAP, the WIC program, which provides nutrition assistance and education to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children, is also facing an imminent funding crisis. Despite a recent $300 million allocation from the White House to extend the program through October, funds are projected to run out as early as November 1.
Georgia Machell, CEO of the National WIC Association, emphasized the severe consequences of a funding lapse. “Without additional funding, State WIC Agencies may be forced to take drastic measures that prevent families from accessing the services they need, such as halting food benefits. This would directly jeopardize the health and nutrition of millions of mothers, babies, and young children,” Machell stated.
Previous Cuts to SNAP
It is important to note that the current situation follows significant cuts to the SNAP program enacted under the previous administration. A bill referred to as “Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill” reduced the program’s funding by an estimated $186 billion over a decade. These changes implemented stricter eligibility requirements and work mandates, which critics argue disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including veterans, seniors, homeless individuals, and those transitioning out of foster care.
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- Some States Won’t Get SNAP Benefits in November Due to Government Shutdown (marketrealist.com)