As the federal shutdown stretches on, millions of vulnerable Americans are about to feel the most severe impact yet — the suspension of essential food assistance programs.
Several states are now warning that they may be forced to halt Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits if the shutdown continues into next month.
SNAP, often called “food stamps,” supports around 42 million low-income Americans. Participants receive electronic benefits on a card that works like a debit card to purchase groceries.
The program is operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), but the funding is distributed through state governments, which then handle local administration.
Ronald Ward, Acting Associate Administrator of FNS, issued a letter this week cautioning that the program is approaching a critical point.
“If the current lapse in appropriations continues, there will be insufficient funds to pay full November SNAP benefits for approximately 42 million individuals across the nation,” Ward wrote. “FNS appreciates and understands that states have questions regarding operation of the program and has begun the process of fact finding and information gathering to be prepared in case a contingency plan must be implemented.”
Now, some of the country’s most populous states say they may not be able to issue benefits during the holiday months.
The New York City Human Resources Administration website currently warns: “Notice: Due to the federal shutdown, November SNAP benefits are pending. We will update information as we know more.”
Similarly, the Texas Department of Human Services states, “SNAP benefits for November won’t be issued if the federal government shutdown continues past Oct. 27.”
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An Oct. 17 update from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services cautioned that no November benefits would be distributed until the shutdown ends.
“Because Republicans in Washington D.C. failed to pass a federal budget, causing the federal government shutdown, November 2025 SNAP benefits cannot be paid,” the message read. “Starting October 16, SNAP benefits will not be paid until the federal government shutdown ends and funds are released to PA. We will notify SNAP recipients when payments can resume.”
Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman addressed the issue in a social media video on Oct. 22.
“Shut our government down and America loses,” he captioned the clip. “Two million Pennsylvanians depend on SNAP to feed their families. For me, it’s hungry Americans over party. Paying our military over party. Paying Capitol Police and federal workers over party. I choose country over party.”
The California Department of Public Health has issued a similar alert, warning that “millions of Californians receiving benefits from state programs may be impacted,” though some services remain available for now.
“For now, California’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) will continue to provide services and enroll eligible families as long as funding is available,” the statement said. “No new federal funding to California WIC will be provided until the President and Congress take action. Families should continue to use their WIC benefits and attend their WIC appointments.”
Despite the shutdown’s growing impact on food assistance, health services, national parks, and pay for government workers and the military, one high-profile project remains active: the $200 million construction of a new White House ballroom.
According to a memo from the White House Office of Management and Budget, the ballroom is being financed by President Donald Trump and other private donors, so it is unaffected by the ongoing budget impasse.
“Work will continue to be performed as the funds currently supporting are not tied to a FY26 enacted appropriation,” a White House official said, per ABC News.
