42 million Americans could lose food stamps as shutdown drags on

"With no end in sight for the political standoff that shuttered the federal government, funding for some key programs is drying up. More than 40 million Americans may not see their food stamps issued next month, as the government shutdown extends into its third full week. Some states have begun warning their residents of the looming threat to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as SNAP."

"New York Governor Kathy Hochul demanded that the federal government release funds for SNAP recipients, accusing the Trump administration of deliberately enacting "a cruel, senseless and politically motivated punishment" that could be avoided. "I'm outraged that Washington Republicans are deliberately withholding federal funding from millions of New Yorkers who rely on SNAP to put food on the table," Hochul said in a press release, highlighting the three million New Yorkers who stand to be affected by a SNAP shortfall."

The federal government shutdown has entered its third full week, causing funding shortfalls for key programs. More than 40 million Americans may not receive November SNAP payments as states warn residents of interrupted benefits. Pennsylvania posted a notice saying November 2025 SNAP benefits cannot be paid because Congress failed to pass a federal budget. New York officials demanded federal release of funds, noting three million state residents could be affected. SNAP leadership told states the program is funded only through October and advised holding off EBT distributions until further notice. The shortfall could leave about 42 million people without benefits, and the shutdown has intensified partisan blame over funding priorities.

Read at Fast Company