By Jamie Martin
Representative Jim Costa of California’s 21st District is leading efforts to safeguard critical food assistance for millions of Americans during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Partnering with the Central California Food Bank and local Valley leaders, he urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture to release available contingency funds to ensure timely November SNAP payments.
The administration’s initial refusal to use the $5 billion contingency reserve jeopardized support for 42 million people nationwide. In Costa’s district alone, nearly 30 percent of households depend on SNAP, with 60 percent including children, 34 percent including seniors, and 46 percent including individuals with disabilities.
Judicial action has since brought relief. Judge John J. McConnell ruled that the administration must release contingency funds immediately to maintain SNAP operations, while Judge Indira Talwani ordered emergency funding for partial benefits and demanded a plan update by November 3, 2025.
To further protect families, Costa co-sponsored the Feed Our Families Act, designed to guarantee three months of reserve SNAP funding during future shutdowns. He also signed a joint letter with over 200 colleagues calling on the USDA to act swiftly in releasing the needed funds.
Food security is fundamental, stated Costa, emphasizing that no family should go hungry because of politics. His leadership underscores the vital role of consistent food assistance in supporting America’s most vulnerable citizens.
Read related article: SNAP Funding Secured During Shutdown
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