Oregon and Washington Join Forces Against USDA in SNAP Data Lawsuit
SALEM, Ore. (KATU) — In a significant legal move, Oregon and Washington have joined 20 other states in suing the Trump administration over the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) attempts to access sensitive data from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The lawsuit contends that the federal agency is improperly seeking personal information from low-income families reliant on food stamps, including Social Security numbers and home addresses.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins defended this request, stating that it is necessary to ensure the integrity of the program. “President Trump is rightfully requiring the federal government to have access to all programs it funds – SNAP is no exception,” Rollins noted.
However, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield sharply criticized the USDA’s demand, deeming it a violation of state and federal privacy laws. He emphasized the critical role SNAP plays in the lives of many families, asserting, “Forcing states to hand over years of sensitive personal information puts those same families at risk. Oregonians shouldn’t have to give up their privacy to put food on the table.”
Rayfield’s office pointed out that, amidst the push for extensive data gathering, the federal government could be utilizing this information to further its immigration enforcement agenda. The lawsuit highlights growing concerns over privacy rights and the potential risks posed to vulnerable populations under the current administration’s policies.
As the case unfolds, the coalition of states aims to protect their constituents’ privacy and maintain the integrity of essential programs like SNAP that provide crucial support to many Americans.
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