Pennsylvania sues USDA over loss of funding for food aid program

In the United States, Pennsylvania has taken legal action against the U.S. Department of Agriculture, claiming that the agency unlawfully terminated funding for a significant food aid program. This lawsuit was initiated by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a member of the Democratic Party, and announced during a press conference held at a food bank warehouse in Philadelphia. The suit specifically targets funding meant to assist states in purchasing food from farms for schools, child care centers, and food banks. The USDA's decision to cut off funding occurred about three months prior to the announcement of the lawsuit, as the agency stated that the pandemic-era assistance program was no longer aligned with its priorities. Governor Shapiro expressed confusion and frustration regarding the USDA's priorities, emphasizing the importance of feeding people and supporting farmers. He articulated strong confidence in the lawsuit's success, describing the USDA's actions as a breach of a contractual obligation. According to Shapiro’s administration, the lawsuit argues that the USDA did not adequately explain why funding was terminated or demonstrate that the agency had the authority to do so under the existing contract. The financial implications for Pennsylvania are significant, with the state expected to lose $13 million under a three-year contract, funds that were earmarked for critical purchases needed to support local food banks and nutrition programs in the state. This includes a variety of essential food items such as cheese, eggs, meat, fruits, and vegetables, which are crucial for ensuring that vulnerable populations receive adequate nourishment. Moreover, this legal confrontation not only represents a challenge to the USDA's recent policy directions but also raises broader questions about food security in the state and across the nation. The program that was cut off is designed to distribute over $1 billion in aid to states, underscoring the significant impact of these funding decisions on community health and welfare. Following the termination of this initial contract, the USDA, under President Joe Biden's administration, had previously announced that a second round of funding would occur, indicating a complex landscape of federal funding priorities amid ongoing challenges to food aid programs.