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California AG Bonta Sues USDA Over SNAP Privacy Invasion

7/29/2025

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Bonta Challenges USDA

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has launched a bold federal lawsuit against the Trump administration's USDA, challenging their invasive demand for extensive personal data from SNAP recipients. This alarming request not only jeopardizes vital funding but also infringes on privacy rights. Joined by 18 states, Bonta's fight seeks to safeguard vulnerable communities from the potential misuse of their sensitive information.

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James Leads Legal Challenge

New York Attorney General Letitia James spearheads a coalition of 20 Democratic attorneys general in a bold lawsuit against the Trump administration. They challenge the administration's intrusive demand for personal information from SNAP recipients, claiming it violates privacy laws and unfairly targets immigrants. This legal battle underscores the urgent need to protect sensitive data and state funding.

History

Historical Context

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was established by the Food Stamp Act in 1977 to combat food insecurity among low-income families. Recently, the USDA's request for extensive personal data from SNAP recipients has sparked legal challenges from 19 states, including California and New York, reflecting ongoing tensions between privacy rights and government oversight in welfare programs.

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Bonta Challenges USDA

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has launched a bold federal lawsuit against the Trump administration's USDA, challenging their invasive demand for extensive personal data from SNAP recipients. This alarming request not only jeopardizes vital funding but also infringes on privacy rights. Joined by 18 states, Bonta's fight seeks to safeguard vulnerable communities from the potential misuse of their sensitive information.

1 / 3