Judge Halts Trump Plan to Cut Minnesota Food Stamp Funding

A federal court has intervened in a contentious dispute between Minnesota and the Trump administration regarding food stamp funding. A significant decision was made by U.S. District Judge Laura Provinzino, who halted a plan to cut $80 million allocated to Minnesota’s food stamp program amid allegations of fraud.

Judge Blocks Funding Cut

The judge ruled during a hearing in St. Paul, Minnesota, asserting that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) likely acted illegally by imposing a 30-day deadline on the state. Minnesota was tasked with reviewing the eligibility of 100,000 households under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is critical for many residents.

Background of the Dispute

Minnesota filed a lawsuit against the USDA after the federal agency threatened to withhold half of the state’s food stamp administrative costs if it did not meet the January 15 deadline. This decision followed a broader investigation into the misuse of federal funds meant for social-welfare programs in Minnesota.

Legal Findings

• Judge Provinzino expressed concerns that the USDA did not justify the need for an expedited review.
• She further stated that the USDA was asking Minnesota to contravene federal law, which prohibits state eligibility reviews more than once a year.
• Provinzino emphasized that the USDA’s demands would violate Minnesota’s approved operational plan.

Impact of Funding Decisions

The ruling temporarily safeguards Minnesota from losing critical funding, including $20 million earmarked for the first quarter of the fiscal year. This decision does not affect monthly food stamp benefits intended for recipients.

Political Context

Minnesota officials claim that the USDA’s actions are politically motivated, tied to President Trump’s grievances with the state and its Democratic governor, Tim Walz. Joseph Richie of the Minnesota Attorney General’s office remarked that the federal government is targeting Minnesota in a punitive manner.

National Implications

The SNAP program has been a focal point in the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Democratic lawmakers. During last year’s federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits were disrupted, forcing states to find alternative funding solutions.

Eligibility for SNAP Benefits

SNAP provides essential monthly benefits to eligible individuals and families with incomes below 130% of the federal poverty line. For the 2026 fiscal year, the maximum monthly benefit is $298 for a single-person household and $546 for a two-person household. States handle the administration of these benefits.