Platkin, coalition of attorneys general seek answers on potential SNAP funding lapse amid federal shutdown
TRENTON, N.J. — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and a coalition of 23 attorneys general are calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to explain how it plans to handle a potential lapse in funding for critical nutrition programs caused by the ongoing federal government shutdown.
In a letter sent to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Ronald Ward, Acting Associate Administrator for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the attorneys general requested clarity and additional information after the USDA warned states that funding for key nutrition programs may pause beginning Nov. 1, 2025. The letter also outlined concerns about the impact on children, seniors, and veterans who depend on food assistance for daily meals.
In New Jersey, nearly one million children, veterans, and senior citizens rely on assistance provided through SNAP and the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program.
“It is outrageous and cruel that the Trump Administration would allow this funding to end and endanger the lives of millions of Americans, including nearly a million people right here in New Jersey,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “Since the money is available to continue paying these benefits without any interruption, I can’t help but wonder what the true motivation is here for literally taking food away from our most vulnerable citizens.”
According to the letter, the USDA issued a notice to state agencies on Oct. 10, 2025, stating that “if the current lapse in appropriations continues, there will be insufficient funds to pay full November SNAP benefits for approximately 42 million individuals across the Nation.” The letter directed states to “hold their November issuance files and delay transmission to State EBT vendors until further notice,” affecting ongoing benefits and daily files.
The coalition argues that USDA’s directive was issued without citing legal authority or providing justification and that existing federal law allows the department to reduce or suspend SNAP benefits only under certain conditions, which the letter says have not been met.
The attorneys general also contend that the USDA has access to at least $6 billion in contingency reserve funds appropriated by Congress for emergencies, as well as additional Section 32 funds, which they say could be used to continue SNAP payments during the shutdown.
They warn that any interruption or delay in funding could cause significant hardship for the 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP. Nationally, nearly 40% of SNAP recipients in fiscal year 2023 were children ages 0–17, and 20% were adults ages 60 and older.
The letter asks USDA to provide answers by Oct. 27, 2025, to several key questions, including the availability of contingency funds, other possible sources of funding, and clarification on whether the agency’s Oct. 10 letter should be treated as a suspension or cancellation of benefits under federal regulations.
