N.J. Governor Phil Murphy Declares State of Emergency Over Federal Food Aid Suspension

Due to the abrupt stoppage of federal food aid, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has proclaimed a state of emergency to protect over 800,000 residents. The designation permits New Jersey to mobilize emergency resources and coordinate assistance efforts as households prepare for SNAP disruptions.

State officials report that over half of those impacted are children, one in three are disabled, and one in five are seniors. Thousands of low-income families may run out of food aid within days due to SNAP funding halts due to national budget disagreements.

Governor Murphy stated the federal government’s funding suspension endangers public health and safety. He promised that New Jersey would use all resources to assure food access and stability for families. Governor orders Office of Emergency Management, managed by State Police Superintendent, to coordinate food delivery across state departments, private organizations, and local nonprofits.

Murphy has given $42.5 million to the state’s six major food banks to buy food and supplies immediately as part of the emergency response. This amount is half of these organizations’ fiscal year funding. The purpose is to prepare food banks for a sharp demand increase during the federal aid suspension.

A statewide task committee to promote food networks and support community organizations supporting low-income families is also created under the governor’s executive order. Residents with unused SNAP benefits from prior months can access their balances, while state agencies help new applications and assure free or reduced school meals for eligible children.

The state of emergency shows how much localities require federal food assistance. New Jersey took immediate action to prevent food insecurity while federal officials and courts decide if contingency funds can restore halted payments. State officials advise residents to stay educated and use local food options until money returns.

Sources
State of New Jersey official announcement
Local New Jersey news outlets covering state emergency declaration
Statements from Governor Phil Murphy’s office