A new lawsuit by Democratic state officials Tuesday seeks to uncork emergency money to help tens of millions of Americans keep buying food for their families after federal SNAP funding is expected to run dry soon due to the U.S. government shutdown. SNAP provides essential grocery assistance to about one in eight Americans. Without it, many families, including those with children and older adults, might face severe food insecurity soon.
The lawsuit focuses on a $5 billion federal fund, which could support food benefits for over half a month, and claims that the government has a responsibility to maintain these benefits as long as funding exists. In response to the shutdown, some states are attempting to provide alternative food aid options, but technical challenges and insufficient resources complicate these efforts. As the situation develops, advocacy groups and food banks prepare for an increased demand for services amid dwindling aid for these vulnerable populations.
The lawsuit focuses on a $5 billion federal fund, which could support food benefits for over half a month, and claims that the government has a responsibility to maintain these benefits as long as funding exists. In response to the shutdown, some states are attempting to provide alternative food aid options, but technical challenges and insufficient resources complicate these efforts. As the situation develops, advocacy groups and food banks prepare for an increased demand for services amid dwindling aid for these vulnerable populations.
