PP Language Lessons
MediumBusinessOctober 28, 2025

States Challenge USDA Over SNAP Payments During Shutdown

EasyMediumHard

Key Vocabulary

contingency

Money kept aside for unexpected problems or emergencies.
Example: The agency has contingency funds for shortfalls.

temporary restraining order

A short-term court order that stops an action while a case proceeds.
Example: The states asked for a temporary restraining order.

coalition

A group that joins together for a common goal.
Example: A coalition of states is suing the agency.

administer

To manage or run a program or service.
Example: States administer SNAP benefits to residents.

📖 Article

On October 28, 2025, a coalition of state attorneys general and three governors have filed a lawsuit in federal court to block a planned cutoff of SNAP benefits. The plaintiffs argue that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has said it will not use contingency funds to pay November benefits, although the agency has used emergency money for other programs during the shutdown. The USDA sent a memo on October 24, 2025, telling states that funds are insufficient to pay full November benefits if the shutdown continues.

The coalition is seeking a temporary restraining order while the court reviews the case. More than 40 million Americans depend on SNAP for basic groceries, and state officials warn that a pause would increase demand at local food banks and strain households. Since states administer SNAP but the federal government sets funding, the lawsuit contends that the agency must use available contingency funds. The legal action has been joined by many state attorneys general and aims to restore benefits quickly.

167 words

❓ Quiz

Q1. Which agency has said it will not use contingency funds?
Q2. When did the USDA send a memo telling states about funds?
Q3. What legal action are the states seeking to stop the payments?

💬 Discussion

1.

Have you ever had to skip buying something important because money was low? What did you do?

2.

Do you think local charities can handle a sudden increase in demand? Why or why not?

3.

What do you think is the best way to tell people about changes to help programs?

4.

Would you like to volunteer at a food distribution center if demand rises? Why or why not?