SNAP has been the center of an intense legal battle, with funding for the program running out due to the government shutdown.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services announced Monday that it would start sending out payments up to 65% of a household’s normal maximum allotment as early as today.

Congress has taken a major step toward reopening the government, but there’s still uncertainty about when one of the most far-reaching impacts of the closure will be resolved and all 42 million Americans who receive SNAP food aid will have access to their full November benefits.

The shutdown brought the scale of the federal food aid program into focus and raised questions about how such a rich country could have so many people on nutrition assistance.

As the government shutdown continues, Roanoke residents dependent on SNAP benefits are facing significant challenges with delayed payments and uncertain futures.

The USDA sent out its initial guidance after U.S. District Judge McConnell on Thursday ordered the Trump administration to fully fund SNAP by Friday -- but on Saturday the USDA told states that they must "immediately undo any steps taken to issue full SNAP benefits for November 2025."

A week later than usual, Indiana has started processing partial SNAP benefits for eligible Hoosiers who've gone without due to the government shutdown.

Governor Glenn Youngkin announced that federal SNAP payments are returning but at about 65% of the usual amount. Those who receive SNAP benefits can expect to see roughly two-thirds of their normal payment,