SNAP Benefits in Limbo as Government Shutdown Continues: Alabama Lawmakers Weigh In

October 24, 2025 - MONTGOMERY, AL - As the federal government shutdown stretches into its fourth week, Alabama families who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are facing growing uncertainty. With November benefits at risk, state agencies and food banks are preparing for potential disruptions that could affect more than 750,000 Alabamians.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has warned that without Congressional action, there will be "insufficient funds" to pay full November SNAP benefits nationwide. While October payments were issued before the shutdown began, states have been instructed to pause electronic benefit transfers for November until further notice.

🍽️ What's at Stake in Alabama

SNAP provides monthly food assistance to low-income families, seniors, and children. In Alabama, the program is administered by the Department of Human Resources and plays a vital role in combating food insecurity-especially in rural counties and urban centers like Birmingham, Montgomery, and Mobile.

Local food banks, including the Montgomery Area Food Bank and Feeding Alabama, are bracing for increased demand. "We're already seeing more families asking about emergency food boxes," said one coordinator. "If SNAP payments don't arrive in November, we expect lines to double."

Congressional Commentary

Alabama's congressional delegation has offered mixed responses to the growing crisis:

Rep. Terri Sewell (D–AL7), whose district includes much of the Black Belt region, issued a statement urging swift action:

"SNAP is a lifeline for working families and children in my district. Congress must act immediately to restore funding and prevent hunger. This shutdown is hurting the most vulnerable among us."

Rep. Barry Moore (R–AL2), who represents parts of southeast Alabama, emphasized fiscal reform but acknowledged the urgency.

"We need to rein in spending, but we also need to make sure essential services like SNAP are protected. I'm working with colleagues to find a path forward that balances responsibility with compassion."

Rep. Gary Palmer (R–AL6), a member of the House Republican leadership, has not issued a direct statement on SNAP but has supported broader spending cuts. In a recent interview, he said:

"We have to make tough choices. The shutdown is a symptom of a broken budgeting process, and we need long-term reform."

Rep. Robert Aderholt (R–AL4), who sits on the House Appropriations Committee, told reporters:

"I'm concerned about the impact on rural families. SNAP is one of the programs we're looking at closely as we negotiate a resolution."

What SNAP Recipients Should Know

• October benefits were paid and remain usable.

• November benefits are at risk if Congress does not pass a funding bill by the end of October.

• Recipients should monitor Alabama's DHR portal and contact local offices for updates.

• Food banks and pantries may offer emergency support, but supplies are limited.

Political Pressure Mounts

Faith leaders and community advocates across Alabama are urging lawmakers to prioritize nutrition programs. At a recent Moral Monday protest in Montgomery, clergy called on Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville-as well as House members-to oppose cuts to SNAP, WIC, and Medicaid.

"These programs are not luxuries-they are necessities," said Rev. Carolyn Foster of Greater Birmingham Ministries. "We need our elected officials to protect the people, not punish them."

Looking Ahead

If the shutdown continues into November, SNAP recipients could face delays or reductions in benefits. The USDA has not released a contingency plan beyond October, and state agencies are operating on limited reserves.

For Alabama families living paycheck to paycheck, the stakes are high. As Congress debates spending priorities, the future of food assistance hangs in the balance.