Sat Oct 25 11:10:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article based on the information:
Summary:
Millions of Americans who rely on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits are at risk of having those benefits reduced or eliminated due to a potential government shutdown. The Department of Agriculture warned that SNAP could run out of funds in November if the shutdown continues. This is due to disagreements between Democrats and Republicans in Congress over extending Affordable Care Act subsidies. While the administration may attempt to find alternative funding, state officials are preparing for the possibility that SNAP benefits will not be issued in November, potentially impacting millions of low-income individuals and families. Some states are preparing emergency responses through food banks, but those agencies are facing their own funding issues and increased pressure. Beyond the immediate shutdown threat, recent legislation passed by House Republicans, that could dramatically reduce SNAP enrollment by millions in the coming years has heightened the food insecurity concerns of many.
News Article:
Government Shutdown Threatens Food Assistance for 42 Million Americans
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A potential government shutdown is jeopardizing food assistance for approximately 42 million Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has warned states that the program could run out of funds in November if Congress fails to reach a budget agreement.
The shutdown stems from a dispute between Democrats, who are pushing to extend expiring Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies as part of federal funding approval, and Republicans, who want to extend funding before negotiating the ACA subsidies. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins accused Democrats of prioritizing “free healthcare for illegal aliens” over food security for American families, a claim based on a false talking point on X.
SNAP provides an average monthly benefit of $190 per individual or $356 per household, enabling recipients to purchase essential groceries. With the majority of SNAP households living in poverty, the potential loss of these benefits could have devastating consequences.
While the Trump administration may attempt to tap into SNAP’s contingency fund or transfer funds from other USDA programs to extend benefits, state officials are bracing for the worst. Officials in Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Wisconsin, and Florida have indicated that SNAP benefits may not be issued in November if the shutdown persists.
“Empty cupboards and stomachs are not abstract outcomes,” Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers wrote in a letter to Rollins. “They are the very real and near consequences of the dysfunction in Washington.”
Several states are preparing emergency measures. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced he will deploy the National Guard and California Volunteers to support food banks.
Adding to the pressure, food banks across the country are already strained due to recent administration policies cutting $500 million in funding for food deliveries.
Beyond the immediate crisis, broader legislative changes could drastically impact SNAP enrollment in the coming years. A Republican-backed bill, supported by House Speaker Mike Johnson, includes changes to work requirements that the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates would reduce SNAP participation by approximately 2.4 million people monthly.
The future of food security for millions of vulnerable Americans hangs in the balance as the government shutdown looms. The USDA did not respond to requests for comment on contingency plans.
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