Pennsylvania Officials Clash Over State Loan to Sustain SNAP Benefits During Federal Shutdown

Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity has proposed loaning $368 million from the state's Short-Term Investment Pool to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the federal government shutdown, which threatens to halt food assistance for nearly 2 million Pennsylvanians. Governor Josh Shapiro has rejected the proposal, citing federal USDA guidance that states will not be reimbursed for funds used to cover SNAP benefits during the shutdown and labeling the loan plan as unworkable and costly for the state. Shapiro has joined over 20 states in suing the Trump administration to compel the use of contingency funds to maintain SNAP funding, criticizing the administration for using the shutdown to pressure Senate Democrats. Garrity defends her loan offer as a practical solution to protect vulnerable populations, emphasizing bipartisan cooperation despite the upcoming gubernatorial election where she may challenge Shapiro. The dispute highlights the political tensions at both state and federal levels amid ongoing budget impasses and the potential for increased food insecurity in Pennsylvania. Both officials express concern for the millions relying on SNAP, but differ sharply on the best approach to ensure continuous assistance during the crisis.