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,

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.