US States Sue Over SNAP Cuts and Food Stamp Freeze
Virginia is launching a state-funded program called VENA to provide weekly food assistance payments to SNAP beneficiaries starting November 3, due to the federal government shutdown, which has paused SNAP payments. The program will distribute about $37.5 million weekly to around 850,000 recipients, with payments occurring in waves on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, offering more frequent support than usual. Governor Glenn Youngkin blamed the shutdown on Democrats in Congress and expressed hope that the federal government will resume normal operations soon.