The state of New York has declared a state of emergency in response to the looming suspension of federal food assistance triggered by the ongoing U.S. government shutdown.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced an emergency allocation of $65 million to support food aid programs and ensure the availability of around 40 million meals for residents who rely on assistance. The funding move comes as federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits face interruption due to the shutdown.

“The prolonged federal government shutdown is putting millions of vulnerable Americans at risk,” Hochul said at a press briefing. She added that the Trump administration has refused to release billions in federally approved contingency funds, intensifying concerns for low-income households dependent on SNAP.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture instructed states to delay November SNAP distributions “until further notice,” citing insufficient funds amid the shutdown.

To cushion the blow, several states have announced emergency support measures:

• Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry signed an emergency order to ensure SNAP benefits continue.
• Vermont lawmakers approved state funding to support food aid through mid-November.
• New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham pledged $30 million in temporary emergency assistance via EBT cards.

In addition, Democratic governors and attorneys general from 25 states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, asking the court to compel the USDA to use contingency funds approved by Congress to continue SNAP payments nationwide.

SNAP, the largest federal nutrition assistance program, supports nearly 42 million Americans, the majority of whom live at or below the poverty line.