States Sue USDA Over SNAP Eligibility Guidance Changes
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Washington. State attorneys general this week sued the U.S. Department of Agriculture, challenging October guidance that narrows SNAP eligibility for certain refugees, asylees and other humanitarian entrants after they obtain permanent residency. The coalition of 22 state attorneys general argues the guidance exceeds changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill and seeks a court order to block enforcement. States cite potential loss of benefits for thousands, a rise in food insecurity, and legal noncompliance. USDA issued the guidance on October 31; lawsuits were filed this week in multiple federal courts across states. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.
Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- July 2025: Congress passed and the President signed the One Big Beautiful Bill with SNAP provisions.
- October 31, 2025: USDA issued guidance to state SNAP agencies interpreting eligibility changes.
- Early November 2025: A coalition of 22 attorneys general prepared and filed lawsuits in federal courts.
- November 2025: States cited enrollment and impact figures—California noted over 5.5 million CalFresh enrollees; Oregon estimated up to 3,000 affected Oregonians.
- November 2025: Lawsuits seek injunctions and declarations that the USDA guidance exceeds statutory authority and violated procedural requirements.
- Articles Published:
- 6
- Right Leaning:
- 1
- Left Leaning:
- 2
- Neutral:
- 3
- Distribution:
- Left 33%, Center 50%, Right 17%
If courts block the USDA guidance, lawful permanent residents previously flagged by states could retain SNAP eligibility; states seeking to limit federal enforcement may avoid penalties or administrative costs tied to implementing the guidance.
If the USDA guidance is enforced, thousands of refugees, asylees and other humanitarian entrants could lose SNAP benefits, increasing food insecurity and creating administrative burdens and potential financial penalties for some state agencies.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
SNAP lawsuit: California pushes back on Trump administration changes
CBS 8 - San Diego News Urban MilwaukeeFrom Center
States Sue USDA Over SNAP Eligibility Guidance Changes
WMAR Shore News Network The BulletinFrom Right
Attorneys general from Oregon, Washington and others sue to protect SNAP aid | FOX 28 Spokane
FOX 28 Spokane
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