Facing Monday deadlines, the Trump administration must tell two federal judges whether it will keep SNAP running during the shutdown after courts in Rhode Island and Massachusetts ordered payments to continue. The rulings allow partial or full November funding, potentially from USDA's $5 billion contingency reserve and, Democrats say, a separate $23 billion fund, even as benefits will be delayed. Democratic officials from 25 states and D.C., plus cities and nonprofits, sued to stop a planned Nov. 1 freeze. One judge said work requirement waivers must be honored. Millions remain uncertain about groceries as states bolster food aid.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.