Judge Extends Pause, Pennsylvania Keeps SNAP Funding Until October 9
A federal judge has extended a temporary pause, initially granted to several states, to include Pennsylvania. This decision allows the state to retain millions in federal funding for its SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) assistance program, at least until October 9. The ruling comes amidst a legal battle over data sharing between the state and the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture).
Pennsylvania, along with more than 20 other states, sued the federal government over demands to hand over personal data of SNAP recipients. The state offered to provide limited data, under the condition that it wouldn't be shared with other agencies, but this proposal was rejected. The US Department of Justice argued that Pennsylvania was hindering efforts to ensure benefits were properly spent.
The temporary restraining order, granted by Judge Maxine Chesney, prevents Pennsylvania from losing federal funds for now. This pause gives the state time to argue its case in court, with a hearing scheduled for early October. The state already has robust processes in place to verify SNAP eligibility, including checks for citizenship status. It was also one of the first states to join the SNAP National Accuracy Clearinghouse to prevent multiple-state benefits and assist with eligibility determinations. However, advocates express concerns that the Trump administration may use the requested data for immigration enforcement.
The temporary restraining order ensures that Pennsylvania will not lose federal funds for its SNAP program until the hearing on October 9. The state continues to argue against sharing personal data of recipients, citing concerns about potential misuse by the federal government. The outcome of this legal battle will have significant implications for both Pennsylvania and other states involved in the lawsuit.
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