USDA Reverses SNAP Funding Order, Leaving Millions Without Full Food Stamp Benefits

In a major reversal, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is directing states not to issue full food stamp payments this month—despite a federal judge’s order requiring the Trump administration to restore Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

The USDA had initially announced Friday that it would comply with the ruling and fully fund SNAP benefits nationwide. But in a memo sent out late Saturday, the agency instructed state SNAP offices to halt and reverse those actions, calling the payments unauthorized. The department warned that states failing to comply could lose federal administrative funding or even be held financially liable for any overpayments that result.

California Governor Gavin Newsom strongly criticized the move, calling it “shameful” and accusing federal officials of using food assistance as a “bargaining chip” in ongoing shutdown negotiations. “It’s never happened in U.S. history,” Newsom said, adding that 23 attorneys general have already joined lawsuits to protect the benefits.

The reversal impacts roughly 42 million Americans who depend on SNAP benefits, including 5 million Californians. In Riverside County alone, nearly 350,000 residents rely on food assistance, with more than 37,000 living in the Coachella Valley.

Local food banks and pantries are stepping up to help. The Cathedral City Senior Center offers food distribution every Monday from 9 to 11 a.m. on West Buddy Rogers Avenue. FOOD NOW in Desert Hot Springs provides food every Wednesday and Thursday between 7:30 and 10:30 a.m., while the LGBTQ Center of the Desert in Palm Springs holds distributions Thursday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. on Alejo Road.

Local organizers say the need for food assistance is growing daily as families struggle to make ends meet. NBC Palm Springs will have more from those working on the front lines in our 11 a.m. newscast.

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