The Trump administration announced it will use $4.65 billion in emergency funds to cover only half of November’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, declining to draw from other available sources to provide full payments.
The decision affects more than one in six Illinois residents who rely on SNAP, with recipients facing reduced and delayed payments while states recalculate benefits.
Two federal judges had ordered the administration to continue SNAP funding during the government shutdown, giving the USDA until Monday to decide how to proceed. The agency said it would not use the $23 billion Section 32 fund, arguing those dollars are intended for child nutrition programs.
U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth criticized the move as “intentionally cruel,” while Illinois officials warned of logistical delays that could stretch for weeks.
Food banks and pantries are preparing for increased demand.
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