NJ, PA Declare Emergencies Over SNAP Suspension Affecting Millions

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency effective November 1, 2025, in response to the Trump administration's suspension of federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits amid the government shutdown, affecting over 800,000 residents, including many children, individuals with disabilities, and seniors. The declaration activates a coordinated statewide response to ensure food access, expedite delivery of food assistance to banks, and protect vulnerable communities, while encouraging recipients to check their remaining balances from prior months. Despite federal court rulings requiring continued SNAP funding, uncertainty remains about the timely reloading of benefits, prompting New Jersey to mobilize all resources and establish a task force to address the food insecurity crisis. Similarly, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro declared a disaster emergency and allocated $5 million to food banks to support 2 million residents impacted by the SNAP suspension, while initiating private fundraising efforts and joining a coalition of states suing the Trump administration to restore federal food aid. Both states emphasize the critical role of SNAP in preventing hunger and adverse health outcomes among vulnerable populations during the ongoing federal funding lapse.