In a decisive victory for North Carolina families, a federal judge on Friday ruled in favor of Attorney General Jeff Jackson, blocking a proposed change to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that would have cut more than $400 million in food assistance.

Judge Finds USDA Policy Unworkable

The court found that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) placed the state in an “impossible situation” by threatening to withhold $425 million in SNAP funds for 1.4 million North Carolinians unless the state complied with new, rapidly‑imposed guidelines. The ruling restores the withheld funding and prevents the state from facing punitive financial penalties.

Trump Administration’s Proposed Changes

The contested policy stemmed from the 2025 budget championed by President Trump and congressional Republicans, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” The budget sought to tighten SNAP eligibility and require states to shoulder a portion of program costs when certain error rates were detected in applications. States were given only 24 hours to adjust benefit applications to meet the new standards, a timeline the Jackson office called “impossible” and contrary to recipients’ right to access food.

Impact on North Carolina Residents

Attorney General Jackson emphasized that North Carolina is experiencing a “worsening hunger crisis,” noting that one in six residents report insufficient food. By preserving the $425 million, the ruling helps ensure that children and families do not go to bed hungry while the state continues to address food insecurity.

USDA Response

A USDA spokesperson, representing the Trump administration, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Previous Victory and Ongoing Litigation

This decision marks the second successful lawsuit filed by Jackson’s office against the USDA. Last year, the attorney general sued the agency for withholding $230 million in SNAP assistance, a case that also ended in a favorable ruling for the state.

What This Means for Families

With the court’s order, North Carolina will receive the full amount of SNAP funding originally allocated, allowing the state to continue providing vital nutrition assistance to those in need. The decision underscores the importance of state advocacy in protecting vulnerable populations from abrupt federal policy shifts.

Looking Ahead

Jackson’s office indicated it will remain vigilant in defending North Carolina’s right to adequate food assistance and will continue to challenge any future federal actions that threaten the well‑being of the state’s residents.

Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.