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States Sue Trump Administration Over SNAP Eligibility Changes

12/6/2025

Summary

States Sue Trump

Twenty-one states and Washington, D.C., filed lawsuits against U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration over changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The lawsuits claim that new eligibility rules unlawfully exclude refugees and asylum seekers, violating federal law, as stated by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The "One Big Beautiful Bill," signed in July 2020, imposes stricter work requirements and penalties for noncompliant states.
Guidance from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has caused confusion, leaving states uncertain about rule implementation.

History

Historical Context

The 1996 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) replaced the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), emphasizing work requirements. This reform led to a 53% reduction in welfare recipients by 2000. Recent lawsuits against the Trump administration's SNAP changes reflect ongoing concerns about access for vulnerable populations, echoing debates from the 1996 reforms.

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States Sue Trump

Twenty-one states and Washington, D.C., filed lawsuits against U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration over changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The lawsuits claim that new eligibility rules unlawfully exclude refugees and asylum seekers, violating federal law, as stated by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The "One Big Beautiful Bill," signed in July 2020, imposes stricter work requirements and penalties for noncompliant states.
Guidance from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has caused confusion, leaving states uncertain about rule implementation.

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