The Cambridge City Manager told the City Council on Oct. 20 that the ongoing federal government shutdown and budget reconciliation actions are creating uncertainty for federal programs that support local residents, particularly the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Key points from staff: The state Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) reported that October SNAP benefits were issued on time but that November funding and benefit flows were uncertain. The federal budget reconciliation package enacted in July included long‑term SNAP changes and funding shifts to states; the city manager said those changes could cut SNAP funding by large amounts over coming years and that the immediate shutdown created an operational risk for benefit issuance.

Local figures and practical effect: City staff used July 2025 DTA data to estimate roughly 6,700 Cambridge households (about 10,000 people) receive SNAP benefits; the average national SNAP benefit cited was about $187 per person per month. Staff said an Agriculture Department contingency fund might partially bridge November payments but likely would not cover full needs and that the city is coordinating with local nonprofits and regional partners to prepare for possible shortfalls.

Legal and litigation notes: City attorneys said federal courts are operating in essential‑services mode and that some federal litigation remains active despite the shutdown. The city continues to participate in litigation and amici briefs related to federal actions, including cases about federal deployments of forces; staff reported the Law Department is monitoring impacts and pursuing litigation where appropriate.

Ending: City staff recommended continued monitoring and regional coordination. Councilors urged a focus on front‑line nonprofits, town‑to‑town planning and using any available local reserves where necessary to mitigate immediate client harm while longer federal decisions are resolved.