Connecticut Releases Full SNAP Benefits for November Amid Court Appeal

Connecticut has released full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November, as announced by Governor Ned Lamont on Saturday. Approximately 360,000 recipients in the state now have access to the benefits, which have been loaded onto their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. This decision follows a recent court order, with around 65% of the funding sourced from the federal government and the remainder provided by state funds authorized by Lamont.

“Families in need of food assistance should never have been used as political pawns by the Trump administration,” Lamont stated in a news release. He expressed disappointment that the federal government did not fulfill its obligation to provide full funding but emphasized that Connecticut would ensure that recipients receive their benefits.

The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) is responsible for administering the SNAP program in the state. DSS Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves highlighted the importance of food security, calling it a basic human right. “By making SNAP benefits available today, we have shown those in Washington that leadership means putting our residents’ needs first,” she said.

The situation surrounding SNAP funding is complicated by an appeal from the Trump administration against the court order mandating the release of these funds. The Supreme Court is expected to review the appeal within the coming week. Following this, the administration has urged states like Connecticut, which have stepped in to provide assistance, to rescind their full SNAP payouts until a decision is made.

In response to the federal demand, Lamont reassured recipients via social media that the state will not retract any benefits. “We have their back,” he commented in a Facebook post, ensuring that those who have received the benefits can rest easy.

State Senator Stephen Harding, representing Brookfield, emphasized the necessity of prioritizing vulnerable families over political issues. “Thanks to our common-sense bipartisan fiscal guardrails, Connecticut is able to help people in need,” he stated.

Meanwhile, State Senator Matt Lesser, chair of the Human Services Committee, expressed relief at the funding, noting that families in his district are now feeling a sense of security. He criticized the situation, stating, “The wealthiest country in the world allowing its constituents to go hungry for over a week is unjustifiable.”

SNAP recipients do not need to take any action to access their benefits, as these have been automatically loaded onto their EBT cards. Residents can check their balance by visiting MyDSS.ct.gov or by calling 1-888-328-2666.

Connecticut has taken significant steps to ensure that its residents have the support they need during these challenging times, reflecting a commitment to food security and assistance for families in need.