POLITICS

States Sue USDA Over SNAP Eligibility Guidance Changes

PUBLISHED Nov 26, 2025, 2:33 PM ET

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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.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

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.

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Who Benefited

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.

Who Impacted

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.

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