DeLauro Statement on Trump Administration Partially Funding SNAP Benefits After Unnecessary Delay

WASHINGTON — Today, House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released the following statement in response to reports that the Trump administration will tap existing emergency funds to partially cover SNAP benefits:

“After stalling for a month, lying to the public, and doing everything in his power to avoid paying out food stamp benefits, President Trump has agreed to at least partially comply with the law. Unfortunately, because of President Trump and Secretary Rollins’ unnecessary delay, it is not clear when families will receive their benefits. It could be days, weeks, or even months. 

“This was entirely avoidable. President Trump chose to hold hungry children, seniors, and veterans hostage in a selfish and cruel attempt to gain political advantage. After illegally withholding funds meant to feed hungry families, 25 states including Connecticut, along with a collection of nonprofit organizations and state and local municipalities – including the City of New Haven – had to take the administration to court to force their hand. If the Trump administration had their way, no benefits would be paid out at all. Now, only partial benefits will be sent out late, and families will go hungry, while this administration continues to host lavish parties for their billionaire donors and political allies.

“If the Trump administration wanted to, they could fully fund food assistance for November. They already used their legal authority to transfer $400 million from another fund under USDA to cover a different program. They have broad authority to do the same for SNAP. It does not have to be this way. We are in this situation because of a lack of political will on the part of the Trump administration. I urge them to put politics aside and use the money they have available to ensure families do not go hungry.”

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