Louisiana steps in to fund SNAP benefits as federal money runs out

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The federal government’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is expected to run out of money Saturday as the shutdown in Washington drags on. In response, Louisiana officials are stepping in, but only temporarily.

Governor Jeff Landry announced a plan allowing the Louisiana Department of Health to spend up to $150 million a month in state funds to keep SNAP benefits flowing. The plan prioritizes the elderly, disabled, and children, with payments set to be distributed in stages beginning Nov. 1.

However, about 53,000 able-bodied adults who receive benefits won’t be included in the first round of assistance. Landry says those individuals are being encouraged to seek help from local charities and food banks.

“We’re going to be calling on those more fortunate in this state to help us with that,” Gov. Jeff Landry said. “We’re not going to forget them, but we’re going to try to work with charity.”

While the measure passed with near-unanimous support in the state legislature, not everyone agrees the state should step in. Senator Jay Morris cast the lone “no” vote, arguing it sets a dangerous precedent.

“I just don’t think it’s right,” Morris said. “It violates the idea of federalism. It forces us to do something for the federal government that it should be doing itself.”

The governor’s office says Louisiana’s plan can only sustain benefits for one month. If the federal shutdown continues into December, the state’s emergency funding could run out, leaving thousands of families once again uncertain about how they’ll afford food.

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