Government shutdown halts November SNAP benefits for 42 million
Enacted9/10
⚖ Courts ordered USDA to fund full benefits
Federal · Pub. L. 119-37; Rhode Island State Council of Churches v. Rollins, No. 1:25-cv-00569 (D.R.I.) · Effective Nov 1, 2025
Impact 9/10
During the 43-day government shutdown that began October 1, 2025, USDA announced that November SNAP benefits would not be issued, the first lapse in the program's history. Roughly 42 million recipients faced missed or partial payments as USDA first declined to use contingency funds, then issued only half benefits, and at one point directed states to undo full payments. Federal courts in Rhode Island ordered USDA to fund full November benefits, and the shutdown ended November 12, 2025 when the continuing appropriations act (Pub. L. 119-37) restored funding.
Safety net & benefitsGovernment & civil serviceChildrenWorking-age adultsSeniors (65+)Low-incomeParents / caregiversDisabledRural residents
Sources
✓ Verified against primary sources 2026-08-16