By Andi Anderson
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel joined 22 other state attorneys general in asking the U.S. Department of Agriculture to explain a planned lapse in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the ongoing federal shutdown.
Their letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins follows Michigan’s announcement instructing agencies to hold November benefits, raising urgent questions for families who rely on SNAP for food security.
The attorneys general request clarity on two main issues: the legal basis for pausing benefits and USDA’s contingency plans to maintain assistance to the greatest extent possible.
They argue that USDA should fully detail why the pause is necessary and whether alternative funding sources can be used to prevent disruption.
A central point in the letter is an emergency appropriation of roughly $6 billion for SNAP. The coalition contends that these dollars should be deployed to continue benefits rather than directing states to hold already calculated November allotments.
They also ask USDA to specify whether the action constitutes a temporary suspension or an outright cancellation, noting that the distinction carries important legal implications and procedural requirements.
Further, the letter questions USDA’s process, stating that the department’s October 10 guidance did not cite the statutory criteria typically required to reduce or suspend benefits.
Instead of recalculating files consistent with statute, states were told to disregard November issuances entirely, effectively suspending assistance without a clear legal pathway.
USDA has indicated in a recent memo that contingency funds cannot legally be used while the government lacks appropriations, a position that appears to revise earlier statements.
The attorneys general seek detailed explanations about the availability and lawful use of these funds, timelines for decision-making, and how USDA will minimize harm to households if the shutdown continues.
Michigan’s congressional Democrats sent a similar request for answers, underscoring broad concern about the potential impact on families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
The coalition urges USDA to use all lawful tools to keep benefits flowing and to communicate transparently with states and the public.
Responses to the attorney general’s questions were requested promptly, reflecting the time-sensitive nature of food assistance and the need for certainty for those who depend on SNAP.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy