Attorney General Kris Kobach considering new lawsuit on SNAP data controversy

TOPEKA (KSNT) — After a Kansas judge dismissed his lawsuit against Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Attorney General Kris Kobach is considering further legal action.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is asking Kansas to release the data of those who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. However, Kelly has refused, claiming the data request is unconstitutional and illegal.

This led Kobach to suing the Governor, in an attempt to force her to release the data. However, a Kansas judge has moved to dismiss the case.

Now, as the USDA continues to ask Kansas to release the data of those who receive SNAP benefits, Kobach and Kelly have been in disagreement regarding a threat that was made by the federal government.

In a series of written letters sent to the Governor, the USDA has stated they intend to withhold more than $10 million in SNAP funding. This is due to Kelly’s unwillingness to share the data.

The state has appealed the USDA’s decision to withhold this funding, so Kansas hasn’t lost it yet. However, Kobach believes, it’s as good as gone.

“It’s highly unlikely that the Governors appeal process is going to convince the USDA to change their minds, so we’ve lost the money,” Kobach said. “Kansas has lost 10.4 million dollars because of what the Governor has done.”

Furthermore, Kobach has expressed that he may take additional legal action.

“A lawsuit could be brought at a future date after the appeal as concluded,” Kobach said . “There might be some other possible things that I can do as Attorney General to ensure that this aid goes to needy Kansas families.”

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