SNAP lawsuit action led by New York Attorney General Letitia James has resulted in a court order protecting food assistance benefits for vulnerable residents. A federal judge blocked the federal government from imposing millions in penalties on states tied to SNAP operations. The ruling ensures New York’s SNAP program can continue without disruption during the holidays.
What the SNAP lawsuit challenged
Attorney General James led a coalition of 21 attorneys general in suing the Trump administration over actions affecting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
The lawsuit challenged:
- Threats to cut SNAP benefits for lawful permanent residents
- Efforts to penalize states with millions in fines
- Claims that states missed a required “grace period”
State officials argued the penalties were unjustified because final federal guidance was not issued until December 10.
Why SNAP benefits were at risk
In late November, the federal government attempted to cut off SNAP benefits for tens of thousands of lawful permanent residents. That group included former refugees and asylees.
Although federal officials later reversed course, they continued to threaten states with large financial penalties. New York and other states argued those penalties would disrupt food assistance programs and harm families relying on SNAP.
What the court decided
On December 15, a U.S. District Court judge in Oregon issued an order temporarily blocking the federal government from enforcing the penalties.
The ruling:
- Stops millions in threatened fines
- Protects states from financial punishment
- Allows SNAP programs to continue operating normally
The case will continue, but the order preserves benefits while litigation moves forward.
Why the ruling matters for New Yorkers
SNAP helps hundreds of thousands of New York households afford groceries. State officials warned that penalties could have forced program cuts or delays.
Attorney General James said the decision ensures food assistance reaches families who depend on it, especially during the holiday season, when demand is highest.
What happens next
The lawsuit against the federal government is ongoing. The temporary order prevents penalties for now, but a final decision will determine long-term rules for SNAP enforcement.
State officials say they will continue fighting any actions that threaten access to food assistance for eligible residents.
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