Two federal judges have mandated that the Trump administration continue funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as CalFresh in California. This ruling comes as the state faces a critical shortage of resources, impacting over 5 million residents, including approximately 2 million children. With the November 1 deadline rapidly approaching, the decision aims to ensure that benefits remain available amid ongoing government shutdown challenges.
California is one of 25 states involved in legal action against the federal government, asserting that the U.S. Department of Agriculture possesses the necessary funds to support SNAP but has chosen not to allocate them. The program serves about one in eight Americans, making its continuity vital for millions. According to the judges, emergency funding must be implemented to maintain these essential benefits.
Rep. Lateefah Simon, representing California’s 12th district, expressed her commitment to supporting affected families during a press conference. “So while there may be a gap, we don’t even know what that gap may be, maybe hours, maybe days, we will take care of our own,” she stated. Simon emphasized the importance of mobilizing community resources, highlighting efforts to procure food supplies for those reliant on CalFresh.
Regi Young, executive director of the Alameda County Community Food Bank, echoed these sentiments, noting the organization’s proactive steps to address food insecurity in the region. “We’re purchasing a ton of food to come into the community so we can get those out into our communities throughout Alameda County,” Young remarked.
The recent ruling has prompted calls for clarity from the Trump administration, which has acknowledged the judges’ decision but expressed uncertainty regarding its implications. President Trump criticized “radical Democrats” for the ongoing government shutdown and reiterated that while his administration would comply with the court’s orders, further guidance is needed. He posted on Truth Social that any immediate funding would likely face delays as states process the disbursement.
Legal experts have weighed in on the administration’s response. David Levine, of UC Law San Francisco, commented, “The President said, we don’t think we have this power. Well, these two judges have said, Yes, you do, at least on an emergency basis.” Levine’s observations highlight the judges’ independent conclusions regarding the administration’s authority to allocate emergency funds.
Families relying on CalFresh are currently in a state of uncertainty. Annie Banks, coalition and community partnerships organizer for Parent Voices Oakland, described the emotional toll of the situation: “It’s so much precarity. Even just knowing the stress of knowing that your benefits may not be there next month is a really just an evil form of suffering.” Banks also noted that their organization operates a food pantry for families in need, underscoring the urgent necessity for reliable food resources.
The SNAP program represents a significant financial commitment, costing approximately $8 billion per month nationally, with emergency funds covering about $5 billion of that total. As the government shutdown continues and benefits face potential disruptions, the need for clarity and prompt action remains crucial for the millions who depend on this essential aid. The judges have requested an update from the administration by Monday, as the situation evolves.
