1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern and outrage regarding the current administration's refusal to follow established contingency plans for SNAP funding. This decision puts approximately 40 million Americans at risk of going hungry in November 2025. This is not only morally reprehensible but also contradicts existing law, prior practice, and even the administration's own previous actions. The administration's claim that SNAP benefits cannot be provided for November 2025 due to unavailable contingency funds is demonstrably false. The law clearly states that the SNAP contingency reserve is broadly available for program operations. This interpretation has been consistently upheld by previous administrations, including the current one during past shutdowns. During the 2018-2019 government shutdown, SNAP benefits were successfully distributed using available funding sources. The USDA's own guidance, both under the current and previous administrations, has repeatedly confirmed that the contingency reserve can be used to pay regular SNAP benefits during such situations. Furthermore, the administration has the legal authority to transfer funds to supplement the contingency reserves. It is not only within their power but their legal obligation to ensure that SNAP benefits are provided during a shutdown. The potential consequences of this decision are dire. One in eight people in the United States relies on SNAP for their nutritional needs. Denying these benefits could lead to widespread hunger and suffering, particularly among our most vulnerable populations. I urge you to take immediate action. Demand that the administration reverse this decision and utilize all available options to fund November 2025 SNAP benefits. Push for a clear commitment to follow established contingency plans and legal precedents. The well-being of millions of Americans hangs in the balance. Choose your constituents over the exorbitant and unnecessary spending on Trump's ballroom and arc, Kristi Noem's two brand new planes and billions of wasted dollars on ICE and National Guard deployments. Time is of the essence. With November 2025 approaching, we need swift and decisive action to ensure that no American goes hungry due to administrative negligence or misinterpretation of the law. Please prioritize this issue and work tirelessly to protect the nutritional security of our fellow citizens.