The ongoing federal shutdown is poised to cut off Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to nearly 2 million Illinois residents starting November 1. Senate Democrats on Thursday blocked a Republican-backed bill to reopen the government for the 10th time, keeping taxpayer-funded programs like SNAP in jeopardy as the holiday season approaches.
The Illinois Department of Human Services announced that federal officials notified all states that SNAP funding would not be available beyond the start of November if the shutdown continues. The program, which provides food assistance to low-income families, is federally funded but administered by the state.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker acknowledged Friday that the state is exploring ways to bridge the funding gap but offered no specifics. “It’s not a state program. It’s a federal program that we administer, but they are making it near impossible,” he said. “I am hoping that the shutdown will end before Nov. 1.”
Pritzker said potential relief could come in the form of support for food pantries, but admitted the scale of the crisis would be difficult to handle without federal funds. In 2024, Illinois received $705 million in SNAP funding from the federal government.
Democrats in the Senate have shifted their demands, refusing to vote on a clean Continuing Resolution unless Republicans promise to pass a health policy bill. President Donald Trump has urged Congress to approve a no-strings-attached budget to reopen government operations, but Democrats have so far blocked each attempt.
Beyond the shutdown, changes to SNAP are already on the horizon. Beginning in December 2025, new work requirements will go into effect. The Illinois Department of Human Services estimates 450,000 residents will be impacted by the rule changes, adding further strain on families who rely on food assistance.
