Texas officials warn that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits could be disrupted if the federal government shutdown continues past Oct. 27, potentially affecting more than 3.5 million Texans — including 1.7 million children.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has advised states that November payments will not be issued without restored funding.
More than $614 million in benefits are at risk of being paused. Food banks across the state, including the San Antonio Food Bank, are preparing for a surge in need if SNAP is halted, though some have cautioned that rationing may become necessary if demand exceeds supply.
Other federal assistance programs — including TANF, WIC, Medicaid, and CHIP — currently remain unaffected by the shutdown.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is monitoring developments and coordinating with local charities and food assistance providers to mitigate potential gaps. The uncertainty has left many low-income households bracing for food insecurity, just weeks after a federally mandated increase to SNAP benefits took effect on October 1.
State and nonprofit leaders say they will continue providing support as long as resources allow while awaiting action from Congress to avert the cutoff.