Trump Administration Directs States to Halt Full November SNAP Benefits
The Trump administration has issued a directive to states, instructing them to refrain from disbursing full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November 2025. This decision follows a temporary pause by the Supreme Court on a lower court ruling that mandated the issuance of these benefits.
In a memorandum from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), officials stated, “To the extent States sent full SNAP payment files for November 2025, this was unauthorized. Accordingly, States must immediately undo any steps taken to issue full SNAP benefits for November 2025.” The USDA emphasized the importance of compliance with this directive, citing federal regulations that govern the program.
The memorandum referenced 7 CFR 271.7(h), which outlines potential repercussions for states that fail to adhere to the directive. These consequences may include the cancellation of federal funding for state administrative costs and the imposition of liability on states for any overissuances that may occur as a result of noncompliance.
This development has significant implications for millions of Americans who rely on SNAP benefits for food assistance. The program is designed to help low-income individuals and families access nutritious food, and any disruption in benefits could exacerbate food insecurity during the upcoming holiday season.
As states navigate this directive, they face the challenge of balancing compliance with the needs of their residents. The USDA's memo underscores the administration's commitment to enforcing federal regulations while also highlighting the complexities involved in the administration of SNAP benefits.
Further developments are anticipated as states respond to the USDA's directive and as legal proceedings continue regarding the SNAP benefits ruling. The situation remains fluid, and stakeholders are closely monitoring the impact on food assistance programs nationwide.
