Oregon and Washington Sue Trump to Fund SNAP Amid Shutdown

Oregon and Washington have launched a multi-state lawsuit against the federal government amid an ongoing government shutdown. This legal action aims to ensure continued funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. Over 25 states are joining this lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and its Secretary, Brooke Rollins.

Details of the Lawsuit

The states are particularly concerned about the impending lapse in SNAP benefits due to budgetary issues that stem from Congress’s failure to pass a short-term spending package. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield emphasized the critical need for food assistance, stating, “If these benefits stop, thousands of Oregonians will be left wondering how to put food on the table.”

Impact of the Shutdown

• Oregon warns that over 750,000 residents may not receive their SNAP benefits starting November 1.
• Millions of individuals nationwide would also be adversely affected by a shutdown of the program.

The states are urging the USDA to utilize contingency funds that have already been appropriated by Congress for SNAP. They argue that withholding these funds is not only illegal but also morally wrong. Oregon’s Department of Justice has raised concerns about the decisions made by the federal government regarding SNAP funding.

Political Context

The situation is further complicated by the political climate in Washington. While Republicans hold control over both chambers of Congress and the presidency, bipartisan support is necessary to pass the needed budget bills. However, negotiations have stalled, as Democrats have raised concerns about increased healthcare costs associated with the proposed spending package.

Responses from State Leaders

As pressure mounts, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, who is currently abroad on a trade mission, joined other state leaders in sending a letter to Secretary Rollins. The letter urged the USDA to ensure uninterrupted funding for SNAP, highlighting that “hunger should never be a consequence of political stalemate.”

The Importance of SNAP

More than half of Oregonians enrolled in SNAP are children, seniors, or individuals with disabilities, demonstrating the program’s role in supporting the most vulnerable populations. If the program lapses, food banks in Oregon are preparing for increased demand, indicating a potential rise in food insecurity across the state.

The lawsuit represents a crucial step for Oregon and Washington as they seek to protect food assistance programs amid political challenges. Ensuring that families have access to food is not merely a service; it constitutes a fundamental responsibility of the federal government.