Governor Murphy Declares State of Emergency Due to Federal Suspension of SNAP Benefits

Murphy Administration Moves Swiftly to Protect 800,000 Residents Left Without Food Assistance as Trump Administration Fails to Act

TRENTON -Governor Phil Murphy today declared that New Jersey will enter a State of Emergency effective at 12:00 a.m. on November 1, 2025 due to the suspension of federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits by the Trump Administration. Executive Order No. 402 also establishes a coordinated statewide response to ensure food access for vulnerable residents by empowering state agencies to take emergency actions to protect public health and welfare.

More than 800,000 New Jerseyans rely on SNAP to meet their basic nutritional needs. Of the 800,000, almost half are children, one in three are individuals with a disability, and one in five are over the age of 60 years. A lapse in SNAP benefits will make it difficult or impossible for these residents to obtain nutritional assistance and, as a result, they may go hungry and experience additional adverse health outcomes.

"With more than 800,000 New Jerseyans relying on SNAP to put food on the table, the Trump Administration's decision to suspend benefits has created a clear and present threat to the health and safety of our residents," said Governor Murphy. "We will not stand by while families face hunger. That is why our state will mobilize every available resource to strengthen our food access networks banks, protect vulnerable communities, and ensure that every resident has access to the meals they need."

While new federal funds will not be made available on November 1, 2025, SNAP recipients will be able to access any funds in their account that have carried over from October 2025 or previous months. SNAP recipients who routinely receive a State benefit will continue to receive that limited amount. SNAP recipients are encouraged to check their balances online here.

All children in families receiving benefits from NJ SNAP are automatically eligible to receive free school meals and are encouraged to take advantage of this resource. Families enrolled in SNAP do not need to fill out a school meals application. They simply need to go to the school cafeteria for lunch and/or breakfast as usual. Students who do not currently receive free school meals should contact their school district to complete an application. More information about this program, which can be accessed here.

The Governor encourages New Jerseyans to visit nj211.org for statewide emergency resources. This situation continues to change, so SNAP food assistance recipients should check their accounts at NJFamiliesFirst.com; call 800-997-3333; and visit njsnap.gov for updates on the status of their SNAP benefits. A number of pantries offer fresh produce in addition to stable, non-perishable foods, shopping appointments, and information about additional services. Residents are encouraged to locate food pantries and community kitchens via NJ 211 here.

For a copy of Executive Order No. 402, please click here.