As the United States federal government enters its fourth week of shutdown on October 29, 2025, millions of low-income Americans relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—commonly known as food stamps—are facing a double blow. The impasse, triggered by partisan battles over federal spending when Congress failed to pass appropriations for fiscal year 2026 on October 1, threatens to halt November benefits for over 42 million recipients. Compounding the chaos is a sweeping expansion of SNAP work requirements set to take effect November 1, potentially disqualifying even more households amid widespread food insecurity.
The shutdown, the longest in U.S. history and the third under President Donald Trump, stems from Republican demands for deep cuts to health programs like the Affordable Care Act and Democratic resistance to those reductions. Non-essential federal operations have ground to a halt, furloughing hundreds of thousands of workers and straining social services. For SNAP, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has exhausted its $5 billion contingency fund—enough for about 60% of a typical month’s benefits—leaving states scrambling. On October 27, the USDA issued a stark warning on its website: No November benefits will be distributed starting November 1 unless Congress acts. States like Texas, New York, Pennsylvania, and Nevada have already notified recipients of impending pauses, with Democratic governors in over two dozen states suing the administration to release emergency funds. Experts estimate the fallout could force families to skip meals, raid savings, or turn to overburdened food banks, exacerbating hunger for 1.7 million children in Texas alone.
October payments proceeded uninterrupted, as funds were pre-allocated, but the monthly cycle resets now. Without federal dollars—totaling $8 billion nationwide—the program’s electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards will go unfilled. Retailers can’t even renew licenses to accept SNAP during the lapse, further complicating access. Food banks, already aiding 334,000 furloughed federal workers in Texas, brace for a surge in demand. “People will go hungry if benefits are delayed,” warns Ed Bolen of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, noting recipients may prioritize rent over groceries. The USDA, under Trump appointee Brooke Rollins, has pinned blame on Democrats, accusing them of prioritizing “healthcare for illegal aliens” over nutrition aid—a charge fueling partisan rhetoric as President Trump’s Asia trip delays negotiations.
Layered atop this funding cliff are the “incoming” work requirements, enshrined in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, signed by Trump on July 4. Effective November 1, these rules dramatically expand eligibility hurdles for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs), now including those up to age 64 (previously 49) and parents of children over 14. To retain benefits beyond three months in a 36-month period, recipients must log at least 80 hours monthly in paid work, volunteering, job training, or education—roughly 20 hours weekly. States must enforce these nationwide, slashing waivers and requiring proof of compliance, potentially affecting 1.2 million people.
Proponents, including Republicans, argue the changes promote self-sufficiency and curb “dependency,” aligning with broader budget cuts. Critics, however, decry them as punitive, ignoring barriers like childcare shortages, transportation issues, and a tight job market—especially acute now with federal layoffs rippling through communities. In Pennsylvania and New York, where waivers end abruptly, advocates urge exemptions for those with disabilities or in high-unemployment areas, but implementation remains murky amid the shutdown’s chaos. For older adults (ages 60+), who make up 6.5 million SNAP users, the rules could spell disaster, as many face age discrimination in hiring.
As November dawns, the convergence of these crises risks a humanitarian tipping point. With no clear end to the shutdown—Senate Democrats rejecting funding deals and Trump eyeing permanent firings for “non-essential” staff—SNAP households must navigate uncharted territory. Recipients are advised to document work hours, seek state aid, and contact local food pantries immediately. Lawmakers face mounting pressure: End the stalemate, or watch food insecurity swell into a national emergency. The stakes couldn’t be higher for America’s most vulnerable.
SOURCES:
SNAP runs out of money Nov. 1. Here’s what that means in your state : NPR
Food stamps: Understanding what’s happening with SNAP benefits | CNN Politics
Government shutdown impacts SNAP funding, putting families at risk
