The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) acknowledged the U.S. Supreme Court decision late Friday night that allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to temporarily halt full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits nationwide. After issuing partial November benefits to over 586,000 households on Friday, the state had planned to release full benefits this weekend, but paused due to federal obstacles.
NCDHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai noted more than 190,000 North Carolina households received $16 or less—or nothing at all—under the reduced benefits rollout.
“Our department stands ready to issue full benefits to the North Carolinians who depend on SNAP to feed their families and buy nutritious groceries – all we need is clarity from the Federal government,” said Sangvai in a press release. “While partial payments were distributed on Friday based on USDA guidance, they fall far short of what people need. With more than 190,000 households receiving $16 or less, and some receiving no benefits at all, this reduction hits working families the hardest. We continue to urge federal leaders to come together and restore stability for the people who are paying the price for this inaction.”
The partial payments, issued at approximately 65% of normal maximum allotments, meant that households eligible for full benefits saw a 35% reduction, while smaller-benefit households faced larger cuts.
NCDHHS continues to advise beneficiaries to check EBT balances via the ebtEDGE app, at ebtEDGE.com, or phone (1-888-622-7328).
