by Albany, New York — Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled $30 million in emergency funding to help New Yorkers who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as the federal government shutdown heads toward a critical point. Nearly 3 million residents could soon see their benefits interrupted if Washington fails to reach a funding agreement.
In her announcement on Monday, Hochul sharply criticized House Republicans, including Representative Elise Stefanik of New York, for not taking action to restore government operations while food banks statewide warn they are overwhelmed.
“I am doing everything in my power to soften the blow of the destruction Republicans in Washington are inflicting on our state,” Hochul said.
Why the Freeze on Federal Funding Matters
The shutdown has now reached 27 days, creating major uncertainty for programs that vulnerable communities rely on. Federal agencies are quickly burning through the last of their emergency reserves. Without new funding, SNAP benefits could stop on November 1, leaving low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities without critical nutrition support.
Democrats have pointed fingers at the GOP-controlled Congress and White House, claiming they hold the votes needed to reopen the government. Meanwhile, Republicans insist Democrats have blocked legislation that would restore operations.
Hochul said her state’s financial support will help reduce the hardship while federal leaders remain deadlocked.
Potential First-Ever Halt to SNAP During a Shutdown
According to the governor, this situation marks the first time in U.S. history that the federal government may suspend a food assistance program during a shutdown. She also launched a new state information hub detailing how cuts under the current administration may affect healthcare and safety-net programs.
Hochul further warned that 300,000 New York households could lose assistance completely due to changes connected to President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”
Broader National Impact
Across the U.S., around 42 million people rely on SNAP dollars to afford groceries. A recent survey found many may have to skip meals if their November payments are not issued.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has placed responsibility on Senate Democrats, stating they have “voted 12 times to not fund the food stamps program.” USDA officials reiterated that benefits will not be provided on November 1 without legislative action.
Some states are already mobilizing additional help:
- California Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed the National Guard to support food banks
- Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, has said he may declare a state of emergency to protect food access
What Officials Are Saying
In a press statement Monday, Governor Hochul asserted:
“While I’ve said repeatedly that no state can backfill these devastating cuts, I am committed to ensuring New Yorkers do not go hungry this holiday season… Republicans in Congress voted to rip health care and vital services from millions of New Yorkers.”
When Will SNAP Benefits Return?
With no agreement in sight, the shutdown is entering its fifth week, leaving millions in limbo. The fate of November benefits now depends on whether:
- Congress reaches a funding deal
- States offer additional emergency programs
For now, experts warn SNAP recipients to monitor updates closely and prepare for the possibility of delayed aid.
