Multiple US States Declare Emergencies Over SNAP Benefits Lapse

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, several states and counties are taking emergency measures to address the impending lapse of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Clackamas County in Oregon plans to issue a state of emergency and allocate up to $100,000 to support food banks if the state does not provide assistance, emphasizing the need to prevent hunger locally. In Rhode Island, Governor Dan McKee has declared a state of emergency and is redirecting $6 million from other federal programs, along with $200,000 in state funds and matching donations, to maintain food aid for approximately 140,000 residents. Florida Democrats are urging Governor Ron DeSantis to declare a state of emergency and use the state's rainy day fund to bridge the SNAP funding gap affecting nearly 3 million Floridians. These actions highlight widespread concern about food insecurity as SNAP benefits are expected to halt on November 1 due to the shutdown, with state leaders mobilizing resources to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations.