Senator Ryan on the Federal Government Shutdown’s Effect on SNAP
October 28, 2025
“The ongoing Federal shutdown is putting families and those with the greatest needs in our communities at risk of losing the services they receive. On November 1, over 2.9 million people in New York state, including over 80,000 people in Onondaga and Oswego counties, will not receive their regularly scheduled SNAP benefits barring urgent action from the USDA. SNAP helps put food on the table for millions of Americans, many of whom are disabled, children, or older adults. If they do not receive their SNAP benefits, the effects could be disastrous, not only for individuals, but for the economy as well.
The USDA can use contingency funds to cover SNAP benefits during the shutdown, but have not instructed states on how to access these funds. This lack of communication is unacceptable and sends a message that Republicans in Congress do not care about helping the American people.
Where the Federal Government is failing, I fully support Governor Hochul's decision to approve over $30 million in State funds to support meals across New York, but we need to be clear: this money will only provide relief in the near term. Every month, over $16 million dollars in SNAP benefits is given to residents in Onondaga and Oswego counties alone. This shortfall is too much for the State to cover indefinitely. Beyond that, every dollar given out in SNAP benefits generates over $1.50 in economic activity. Halting these payments doesn’t just take food off the table, it takes money away from local businesses. I urge U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to provide states with guidance on how to provide SNAP benefits during these times and I urge Washington Republicans to support these essential programs.”
