Attorney General Raúl Torrez, along with 23 other attorneys general, has reached out to the USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins seeking clarity on the future of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding amid a federal government shutdown. They are concerned about potential disruptions in food assistance for vulnerable groups like children, seniors, and veterans.
Torrez emphasized the importance of SNAP benefits for approximately 450,000 New Mexicans who depend on them. He criticized the directive to withhold contingency funding as "irresponsible," warning it could harm families significantly. "Congress has already appropriated these funds," he said, expressing his commitment to ensuring continued distribution.
On October 10, 2025, the USDA informed state agencies that if the government shutdown persists, there might not be enough funds for November SNAP benefits affecting around 42 million individuals nationwide. The USDA directed states to delay sending benefit files to EBT vendors without citing legal authority or reasoning.
The attorneys general argue that the USDA should utilize its $6 billion in contingency reserve funds and Section 32 funds to maintain SNAP benefits rather than halting distributions. They contend that legal requirements for reducing or suspending benefits have not been met according to the USDA's letter.
The coalition's letter demands answers from the USDA by October 27, 2025. They seek information on available contingency funds and any plans to use them for SNAP benefits. The letter also questions whether states should consider the USDA's directive as a suspension or cancellation of benefits under existing regulations.
New Mexico collaborated with attorneys general from several states including Arizona, California, Colorado, and others in this initiative.
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