Connecticut Attorney General Sues Trump Administration Over SNAP Benefit Suspension

Strategic Insights -

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong led a coalition of 21 attorneys general and three governors in filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration for unlawfully suspending the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to millions of Americans. The lawsuit alleges that the administration's decision to withhold funding is a deliberate and inhumane choice, leaving millions of people without access to food. The coalition is seeking a temporary restraining order to immediately restore SNAP benefits, which are expected to lapse on November 1.

Key Takeaways:

  • The lawsuit targets the Trump administration's decision to withhold funding for SNAP benefits during the ongoing government shutdown, despite having access to billions of dollars in contingency funds.
  • The coalition argues that the administration's decision is both illegal and inhumane, leaving millions of people without access to food.
  • SNAP benefits are expected to lapse on November 1, affecting approximately 42 million individuals across the country.
  • The program provides essential support to low-income families, including approximately 215,000 families and 120,000 children in Connecticut.
  • The administration's decision will have dire consequences for the health and well-being of millions across the country, as well as put unnecessary strain on state and local governments and community organizations.
  • SNAP benefits generate significant economic activity, with USDA estimating that every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.54 in economic activity.

Statistics:

  • Approximately 42 million individuals across the country rely on SNAP benefits to buy food.
  • In Connecticut, an average of approximately 366,000 people received SNAP benefits in 2025, including approximately 215,000 families and 120,000 children.
  • Households in Connecticut receive on average $324 per month in SNAP benefits to meet their basic subsistence and nutritional needs.
  • The USDA has estimated that in a slowing economy, every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.54 in economic activity.
  • SNAP is a key part of Connecticut's efforts to address hunger, supplementing the food budget of low-income families so they can purchase healthy food.
  • The program provides critical support to approximately 2,500 merchants in Connecticut, including grocers who increase their inventory in anticipation of SNAP benefits.

Sources:

  • [Connecticut Attorney General's Office Press Release]
  • [USDA Letter to State SNAP Agencies]
  • [Statement from U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal]
  • [Statement from U.S. Senator Chris Murphy]
  • [Statement from Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro]
  • [Statement from Congressman Jim Himes]
  • [Statement from Congresswoman Jahana Hayes]
  • [Original press release from the Connecticut Attorney General's Office]
  • [Connecticut Department of Social Services Declaration]