A federal judge ruled Friday that the Trump administration move to suspend SNAP food benefits to 42 million Americans due to the ongoing government shutdown was likely against the law.

As that legal battle continues, Democratic lawmakers are pushing the Keep SNAP and WIC Funded Act of 2025, which would require the federal government to maintain the programs and reimburse states for covering the costs of the benefits during the shutdown.

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins said there are some positive aspects of the prospect of 42 million Americans losing their benefits.

As a federal government shutdown continues, New York State is racing to protect its most vulnerable residents from the fallout. Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $30 million emergency food assistance package to support more than 16 million meals statewide,

Gov. Kathy Hochul is expected to announce new measures to protect New Yorkers as millions prepare to lose SNAP benefits on Nov. 1. Due to the ongoing government shutdown, SNAP payments will be suspended nationwide starting in November,

There are approximately 84,000 SNAP recipients in New York's 23rd Congressional District, according to the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. That represents about 48,000 households, including thousands in Steuben, Allegany and Livingston counties.

"Our Government lawyers do not think we have the legal authority to pay SNAP with certain monies we have available, and now two Courts have issued conflicting opinions on what we