The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking steps to comply with a federal judge’s order to provide full food benefits to approximately 42 million Americans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through November 2025. This directive follows a ruling issued by U.S. District Judge John McConnell on Thursday, which requires the USDA to utilize contingency funds to ensure that beneficiaries receive adequate support.
In a communication to state agencies on Friday, Patrick Penn, deputy undersecretary of Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services, confirmed that the USDA is working to implement the judge’s order. The announcement comes amid an ongoing legal dispute, as the Justice Department has appealed McConnell’s ruling, seeking to block the order and calling for an emergency decision on its appeal by 16:00 on the same day.
The controversy began when the USDA notified states late last month of its intention to suspend SNAP benefits for November due to a government shutdown. This prompted a lawsuit from several cities and nonprofit organizations, pushing for immediate relief for SNAP recipients. Judge McConnell’s ruling was aimed at ensuring that food assistance would not be interrupted for those reliant on the program.
In his latest order, McConnell criticized the government for undermining the intent of his earlier directive. He highlighted a social media statement from President Donald Trump, indicating that benefits would only be distributed once the government was reopened. This statement raised concerns about whether the administration would comply with the court’s directive.
Despite the administration’s initial position that it could only provide partial benefits due to limited funds, Judge McConnell mandated that the full SNAP payments be issued using both the contingency fund and additional resources designated for Child Nutrition programs. He accused the government of potentially withholding food benefits for “political purposes.”
As the USDA works to implement the court’s order, there is uncertainty regarding when the full benefits will be realized by recipients. The agency previously informed states that it could take weeks before assistance reaches those in need.
The situation underscores the critical role that SNAP plays in supporting millions of Americans, particularly during challenging economic periods. With approximately 42 million individuals relying on these benefits to purchase groceries, the stakes are high as the USDA navigates this legal and logistical landscape.
As the legal battle continues, the outcome will significantly impact not only the administration’s approach to food assistance but also the well-being of millions of families across the country.
