Human services warns SNAP benefits may be delayed; contingency funds remain unsettled
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Summary
Human services staff reported that regular federal SNAP funding is likely withheld during the federal shutdown; a federal court directed USDA to consider contingency funds (about $5 billion), but distribution mechanics are unclear. Locally the department reported 1,930 cases, $545,636 issued in September and 65 cases pending.
Janelle, a Benton County human services staffer, updated the board on SNAP operations and local impacts amid a federal shutdown.
“Regular federal funding that normally pays for SNAP and MFIP food support will not be issued until the shutdown is resolved,” Janelle said, adding that a federal court ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use contingency funds estimated at about $5,000,000,000 but the funds had not yet been released and staff did not know distribution specifics.
Janelle told commissioners the county’s human services team is continuing to process applications and renewals so benefits can be issued as soon as funds are available. She said local staff were referring people to other resources and expected increased phone volume.
Key local figures conveyed to the board: there were about 1,930 SNAP cases as of October; the county’s SNAP issuance for September totaled $545,636; and 65 cases were pending at the time of the briefing. Janelle also noted that MFIP cash benefits were continuing to be issued and that Minnesota had received roughly $4,000,000 in supplemental resources to assist with the shortfall.
Commissioners asked how long it may take to catch up once federal operations resume; staff cautioned that even after federal agencies reopen, administrative steps may delay distribution and that a court‑supervised contingency distribution may require additional time to implement.
No board action was taken; staff said they will continue processing on‑file applications and will keep the board informed as federal guidance changes.