If he has the authority, why wouldn't he? "Yes, the Trump administration has the authority to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the government shutdown. Multiple source... View MoreIf he has the authority, why wouldn't he? "Yes, the Trump administration has the authority to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the government shutdown. Multiple sources indicate that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) possesses both the legal authority and available funds to continue SNAP benefits. Congress previously appropriated $6 billion in SNAP-related contingency funds, which are specifically intended for use during funding lapses like the current shutdown.
Additionally, the USDA has statutory transfer authority that could be used to supplement these contingency funds and fully finance November benefits.
The USDA itself acknowledged this capability in a shutdown plan released on September 30, 2025, which stated that SNAP operations should continue using contingency funds.
However, the administration has since reversed course, claiming the funds cannot be used, a position that has been widely disputed.
Legal experts and state officials argue that the administration is not only capable but legally required to use these funds to prevent a lapse in benefits for the 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP.
A coalition of over 20 states has sued the administration, asserting that withholding benefits is unlawful and arbitrary."