Governor Ferguson statement on court orders requiring Trump Administration to pay SNAP benefits

Governor Bob Ferguson announced a court ruling that compels the U. S. Department of Agriculture to distribute funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). He criticized the Trump Administration for holding food benefits hostage, stressing the need for immediate action to support families in need. Washington state is prepared to allocate nearly $2.

2 million weekly to food banks if federal SNAP funding is not restored by November 1. Attorney General Nick Brown filed a lawsuit in Massachusetts, resulting in orders that the USDA must tap into contingency funds for November benefits. The rulings underscore the urgency of the situation, particularly in rural areas like Yakima County, where 28 percent of residents depend on SNAP. Increased demand for food bank services continues as food costs rise, leading to longer wait times and resource shortages. Individuals can find assistance through local food banks or by contacting the Washington Department of Agriculture.

For additional resources, they can also reach out to 211 or visit Washington 211’s website.