As the government shutdown persists, funding for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are at risk in states across the country.

SNAP benefits, formerly known as food stamps, are funded by the Department of Agriculture (USDA). The federal government shares the cost of administering the program with states, while states operate their own programs.

Funding is sent to states monthly, so October benefits were not impacted. However, as the government shutdown hit 23 days Thursday November benefits are in jeopardy.

States such as Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and New Jersey have warned that if the shutdown persists, SNAP recipients will lose access to benefits starting Nov. 1.

According to the USDA, an average of 41.7 million people received benefits monthly in fiscal year 2024. That year, the federal government spent $99.8 billion on SNAP, with a monthly average of $187.20 per participant.

States sound alarm over SNAP benefits

The Florida Department of Children and Families, for instance,

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