A new lawsuit has been filed against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over its request for sensitive data from states about millions of people receiving food assistance. The lawsuit argues that this demand violates federal privacy laws. The USDA is asking states to provide detailed personal information about Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, including names, birth dates, Social Security numbers, and addresses, going back more than five years.
This request affects over 40 million people who rely on SNAP each month. The USDA has warned states that failure to comply could lead to legal action or loss of federal funding. Some states are preparing to meet this unprecedented request, while others are questioning its legality.
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit, which includes SNAP recipients, privacy advocates, and hunger organizations, claim the USDA is bypassing necessary legal protocols. They argue that the agency did not provide public notice or seek public comment before making such a significant data collection effort. This is important because federal law requires a specific notice about how personal data will be handled.
The USDA has not commented on the lawsuit but previously stated that the data-sharing guidance aims to eliminate information silos and comply with a recent executive order from the Trump administration. This order calls for better access to data from state programs that receive federal funding.
Privacy experts are concerned about the implications of this data collection, especially regarding immigration enforcement. Critics argue that the USDA’s actions could create powerful surveillance tools and increase fear among vulnerable communities, particularly immigrant families.
Responses to the USDA’s request vary by state. Some states, particularly those with Republican governors, are moving forward with compliance. For example, Iowa and Ohio have stated they are working to fulfill the USDA’s request. In contrast, states like New Mexico are weighing the legality of the demand.
Advocates for food assistance programs worry that sharing this sensitive information could deter eligible families from applying for help. They stress that many immigrants can enroll their U.S. citizen children in SNAP, but the fear of deportation could discourage them from seeking assistance.
The lawsuit highlights a growing concern about how federal agencies handle personal data and the potential for misuse. As the legal battle unfolds, many are watching closely to see how this issue will impact food assistance programs and the privacy rights of millions of Americans.