US: Two federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island have ruled that the Trump administration cannot pause food assistance for millions of Americans during the ongoing government shutdown, directing officials to tap emergency funds to ensure benefits continue.
The rulings came in response to lawsuits filed by Democratic-led states, cities, nonprofit groups, and a union, all aiming to stop the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments scheduled for November 1. SNAP supports around 42 million low-income residents across the country.
Judge John McConnell in Rhode Island said the administration’s move to avoid using available contingency funds was arbitrary and risked immediate harm to families relying on food benefits. He emphasized that emergency money must be deployed as quickly as possible and suggested that officials consider tapping another federal fund if needed.
Minutes earlier, Judge Indira Talwani in Boston issued a similar order, stating that government lawyers were wrong to argue the funds could not be used during a shutdown. She found that the decision to halt payments stemmed from an incorrect legal interpretation.
The shutdown, which began on October 1, has sparked deep concern among state administrators who oversee monthly SNAP distributions. The USDA previously acknowledged that $5.25 billion in contingency funds existed, though it recently told the public that the resource was effectively depleted. SNAP costs roughly $8.5 to $9 billion each month.
With household eligibility tied to strict income limits, the ruling shields millions living near or below the poverty line from losing basic food support. Many states were already preparing emergency guidance to manage potential disruptions.
President Donald Trump said his legal team is asking courts for guidance on how the government can legally fund benefits during the shutdown and suggested that, if given clear direction, the administration will move to release the payments.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, meanwhile, disputed claims that funds were readily available, arguing they could only be spent once federal appropriations resume.
Both judges, however, signaled that federal officials have discretion to keep SNAP fully funded while the political standoff in Washington continues. The administration must report back to the courts on Monday, outlining its plan to comply with the orders.
